Safety Guidelines

Before Hiring a Provider

• Verify identity with a government-issued ID.
• Verify licenses, certifications, credentials, and insurance when relevant.
• Request references and check them directly.
• Ask references about reliability, communication, safety, punctuality, and experience with similar needs.
• Use background checks for anyone working with children, older adults, or vulnerable adults.
• Ask about scope of practice, emergency procedures, supervision, and boundaries.
• Use a written agreement that explains schedule, payment, cancellation, responsibilities, and safety rules.

For Children and Vulnerable Adults

A parent, guardian, or responsible adult should be involved in planning services. Families should avoid leaving a child or vulnerable adult alone with a new provider until trust, references, screening, and safety rules are clear.

For Medical or Therapy Services

Providers should stay within their professional license, certification, and scope of practice. Families should confirm whether a provider is licensed and whether a physician, care plan, school plan, or clinical referral is needed.

Report a Concern

If there is immediate danger, call 911. For suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or unsafe care, contact the appropriate local authority. The live site should include a direct Hope Educational Services contact email for non-emergency concerns.