What HelpNest checks
HelpNest is a marketplace. Providers are independent, and they’re responsible for the services they offer. This page explains what the information on a profile means, what HelpNest does and doesn’t check, and what to confirm yourself.
What a screening status means
Each check on a provider’s profile (such as identity, a police or vulnerable sector check, or first aid training) has its own status:
- Not submitted
- The provider hasn’t shared anything for this check.
- Submitted
- The provider has shared information or a document. HelpNest hasn’t reviewed it yet.
- Under review
- HelpNest is reviewing what the provider shared.
- Verified
- HelpNest has reviewed this check. Only HelpNest administrators can set this status.
- Expired
- The document or certificate has passed its expiry or renewal date.
- Requires attention
- HelpNest needs more information or a corrected document from the provider.
What HelpNest reviews today
A HelpNest reviewer examines each uploaded document before marking it Verified. Until a check on a profile shows Verified, treat that information as provided by the provider.
Identity verification is done with Stripe using a government photo ID. It confirms who someone is, not their history. HelpNest stores only the result, not the ID images, and never shares them with other members. Caregivers must verify before families can book them, and care seekers before a booking is confirmed.
Police checks and certificates are uploaded privately. Only the caregiver and authorized HelpNest reviewers can open them, and every access is logged. Families see the review status and expiry date, never the document.
Providers sign in with a Google account. Profiles show an approximate area, such as a neighbourhood, never an exact home address.
What HelpNest does not check or guarantee
- Experience, education, languages and services are written by the provider and are self-reported unless marked Verified.
- HelpNest does not employ providers and does not supervise the care or services they deliver.
- HelpNest does not check whether a provider holds insurance or any licence their work may require.
- No check can predict how someone will behave. HelpNest does not guarantee the safety, suitability or conduct of any provider.
What you should assess yourself
- Meet first, in person or by video, before the first booking.
- Ask for references from families they’ve worked with, and call them.
- Ask to see original documents, such as a police or vulnerable sector check, and check the date issued.
- Confirm first aid and CPR certificates yourself, including the expiry date.
- Talk through your emergency plan: contacts, allergies, medications, and what to do if something goes wrong.
- Trust your judgement. If something doesn’t feel right, you don’t have to book.
How to report a concern
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 911.
In Ontario, anyone who suspects a child is in need of protection must report it directly to a children’s aid society. Reporting to HelpNest does not replace that duty.
For anything else that worries you about a provider or a booking, let us know so we can follow up.