Care worker

The role of a care worker, or care assistant, is to support people with all aspects of their day-to-day life.

What does a care worker do?

You can work in a variety of settings, such as in a care home, at someone’s home or within the community. You’ll support them with their social and physical activities, including:

  • Eating and drinking.
  • Attending appointments.
  • Shopping and money management.
  • Undergoing basic medical checks.
  • Washing and dressing.
Careworker_Role_Image

What does the role of a care worker involve?

Your day-to-day might include:

  • Booking and accompanying people to appointments.
  • Assisting with personal care such as showering and dressing.
  • Assisting people to eat and drink.
  • Supporting people with their shopping.
  • Monitoring individual’s conditions, taking their temperature, pulse, respiration and weight, and possibly helping with medication.

What skills and qualifications do I need?

What's most important is:

  • Your kindness, patience and compassion.
  • Good English, numeracy and writing skills.
  • Your ability to understand and follow procedures.
  • Strong organisational and time management skills.
  • Good communication and listening skills.

 

You may also need:

  • GCSE A-C in English and Maths.
  • A social care qualification such as Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care.

 

Don’t worry if you don’t have these qualifications – if you’re interested in getting them, you can work towards them once you start the job.

What hours will I work?

Working in care can be flexible. Your hours are usually based on shift patterns, so you can find a work/life balance that suits you.

Is there training and progression?

When you first start working in care, you’ll do an induction which should include the Care Certificate. You’ll also undergo basic training such as health and safety, first aid, and moving and handling. You might also receive specific training based on what the person you’re caring for needs.

You can also benefit from:

  • Informal training & education.
  • Formal qualifications such as a Diploma in Health and Social Care (up to Level 5) or specialist subjects like dementia care, communication skills and team leading.
  • Over 50 vocational qualifications at all levels including topics such as dementia care, communication skills and team leading.
  • Opportunities to progress and develop in adult social care and specialise in a certain area or take on more responsibility.

Hear why Trish chose a career in care

Trish wanted to make a real difference to people’s lives, empowering them to live more independently.

Find jobs in care near you