Getting referrals as an independent support worker
How to generate referrals as an independent support worker: do great work, ask appropriately, stay in touch with coordinators and families, and respect the Code of Conduct.
Why referrals beat every other channel
Do genuinely great work first
Ask appropriately — and when it is right
Stay in touch with coordinators and families
Build reciprocal networks with other workers
Make it easy to be referred
Turn one-off clients into repeat referrers
Respect agreements and the Code of Conduct
Frequently asked questions
How do I get more referrals as an independent support worker?
Do genuinely great work, then make it easy for people to refer you: ask appropriately when someone is happy, stay in gentle touch with coordinators and families, build reciprocal referral relationships with other reliable workers, and keep a findable, current profile so referrals land somewhere accurate. Always keep it…
Is it okay to ask participants for referrals?
Yes, if you do it gently, at the right time, and without pressure. Ask when someone has expressed genuine satisfaction, keep it low-key, and make clear it is entirely their choice. Never guilt, pressure or reward a participant for referring, and never make good support feel conditional on it.
Can I refer clients to other support workers?
Yes, and it is good practice when you cannot take a client yourself — different hours, full caseload, or a request outside your area or skills. Only refer people you would genuinely trust with a participant, make sure it serves the participant's needs, and get consent before sharing any details.
How do coordinators fit into getting referrals?
They are the single richest source. Each coordinator works with many participants and refers repeatedly to workers they trust. Do great work for anyone they send, stay in light touch about your availability, and thank them for referrals. A handful of strong coordinator relationships can keep your caseload full.
Can I take clients from my former agency when I go independent?
Not if it breaches an agreement you signed. Many agencies have terms restricting solicitation of their clients. Check what you agreed to, honour it, and let participants exercise their own free choice. Breaching an agreement or pressuring clients can also raise Code of Conduct concerns.
How do I make it easy for people to refer me?
Keep a findable, up-to-date profile on a marketplace like Novida so anyone can send a plan-managed or self-managed participant straight to it to view your services, availability and checks and enquire directly. Remove friction from the last step, and keep the details current so warm referrals do not go to waste.