Care jobs are often busy and demanding – but they can be very rewarding too.
You can work with people of all ages, from young children and vulnerable adults to looking after the elderly in care homes. Being adaptable, flexible and friendly will help you do well and build good relationships with the people you are supporting.
Healthcare or social care?
The care sector is split into two areas:
- Healthcare – the treatment and care of people with a disease, illness, injury or disability. This care is provided by doctors, nurses and other clinically trained staff.
- Social care – helping people be independent, preventing loneliness and supporting people in their daily lives, either at home or in a care home.
You need qualifications for most healthcare roles, while many social care jobs are entry level or allow you to learn whilst you are working.
What are the different care jobs?
From hospitals and community centres to helping people at home, there are many different care roles available:
Residential care worker
This role involves supporting vulnerable people to live independently, usually in a supported living accommodation or in their own home.
You will help with personal needs, like washing and dressing, and support their physical and mental wellbeing.
Hospital care assistant
This role involves looking after people who are in hospital. Hospital care assistants help people get to and from appointments or assist with their personal needs, like getting dressed or taking medication.
You will not be involved in their medical care but will provide support to help during their time in hospital.
Family support worker
You will help families with long or short-term challenges, like caring for disabled children or helping people develop their parenting skills. The role could be based at school, at the family home or in a court.
What skills do you need to work in care?
- Be caring and friendly – you will work with vulnerable people and their experiences might be emotionally demanding
- Respect – everyone has different needs and circumstances
- Patience – remain friendly and professional, even in challenging situations
- Trust and reliability – you will be dealing with personal information and need to be someone people can open up to
- Be flexible and adaptable – the role is fast-paced, so you need to be ready to change your priorities
- Criminal record check – you will need to complete one of these to work in care.
Ready to get started?
If you are interested in care jobs, we can help you develop the skills, knowledge and experience to get started.
We can even match you with local employers once you are ready to find your new role.
Looking to fill a care role or upskill your team?
Get in touch with our recruitment team for access to our job-ready candidates and employee development programmes.
