6b. Trialling new team members

Introducing someone new into a support team is a big step. That’s why Equal Care uses trial periods: short, paid support sessions that help everyone get a feel for whether the match works, without pressure or long-term commitment.

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What is a trial session?

A trial is a one-off or short series of support visits, arranged so that the Team Owner and the prospective new team member can meet and work together. These sessions:

• Are paid at the agreed hourly rate

• Are time-limited (usually 1–3 sessions)

• Take place with the informed consent of the Team Owner and the new worker

• May be observed or co-supported by an existing team member, where appropriate

The purpose is to explore whether the relationship feels right and whether the support meets the person’s needs.

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What happens during a trial period?

That depends on the type of support and the preferences of those involved. It might include:

• A first meeting and chat, often facilitated by the Team Starter or another team member

• A walk or home visit

• Support with everyday tasks (with guidance from the person receiving support)

• A review conversation afterwards (sometimes called a check-in or debrief)

Where a Team Owner is less able to express preferences directly, a trusted family member, advocate or existing team member may take a more active role in observing and sharing feedback.

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After the trial period

Following a trial period, both the Team Owner and the prospective team member are invited to share how it went. They can do this by:

• Speaking directly with each other

• Talking with the Team Starter or an existing team member

• Writing a message in the Team Chat

• Simply choosing not to continue (silence can also be informative, but we encourage open conversations where possible)

If both parties feel positive, the new team member is invited to join the team and support planning can continue. If one or both don’t wish to continue, that’s absolutely fine: no explanation is required, although learning is welcomed.

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What if it’s a ‘maybe’?

Sometimes, it’s not a clear yes or no. That’s okay. In these cases, the team might:

• Try a second session

• Suggest a different type of support (e.g. companionship rather than personal care)

• Pair the new person with a different team member or activity

• Decide to wait until the team’s circumstances change

Flexibility and communication are key and support should never feel forced.