Bringing a support worker into your life is a big step, and the right questions early on save time and give you confidence. Here's a simple checklist to work through in a first conversation.
About their experience
- How long have you worked as a support worker?
- What kinds of support do you have the most experience with?
- How would you describe your approach to supporting someone?
About consistency and reliability
- Will I see the same person each time?
- How do you handle scheduling and changes?
- How far in advance do we arrange times?
About the support itself
- Exactly what support do you provide — and what don't you?
- How do you make sure support is built around me, not a fixed routine?
- How do you balance helping me with encouraging my independence?
About boundaries and honesty
A trustworthy support worker is upfront about their limits. For example, personal care, medication and clinical support are specific services that should only be offered where the right qualifications and arrangements are in place. Someone being honest about what they don't do is a good sign, not a red flag.
About your local area
- Which suburbs do you cover?
- Are you available in my part of Perth?
Trust your read of the conversation
Beyond the answers, notice how someone communicates: are they clear, warm, patient and reliable from the very first contact? That first impression usually tells you a lot about what working together would feel like.
Key takeaways
- Ask about experience, approach, consistency and scheduling.
- Be clear on exactly what support they do — and don't — provide.
- Honesty about boundaries (e.g. no personal care) is a good sign.
- Check they genuinely cover your part of Perth, and trust your read of the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I ask before hiring a support worker?
Ask about their experience and approach, whether you'll see the same person, exactly what they do and don't provide, which suburbs they cover, and how communication and scheduling work.
How do I know if a support worker is trustworthy?
Look for clear, honest communication — including being upfront about what they don't provide, like personal care or clinical support — plus consistency and reliability from your first contact.
Should a support worker offer personal care?
Only where the appropriate qualifications, experience and arrangements are in place. Samuel G Support provides non-clinical support and companionship.
Looking for Support in Perth?
If you'd like to talk through your situation with an experienced independent support worker, I'd be happy to have an initial conversation.
There's no pressure — just a friendly chat about what you're looking for.
Experienced Support. Genuine Connection. Your Life, Your Way.
Contact Samuel