How do I get a Job as a Carer in the UK?
Home How Do I Get A Job As A Carer In The UK?
Are you a people person? Are you happiest when you are looking after others? If you’re a caring person and you really want to make a difference in someone’s life, then becoming a Care Worker could be the perfect career for you.
It takes a special kind of person to become a carer and it’s important to consider what working as a carer will be like if you aren’t already in a similar role. It would be a good idea to talk to someone you know who may already be in a caring position, to get an idea of what your typical day could look like, but we’ll give you some insight into the kind of roles you can expect in this article. In a sense, there’s no such thing as a typical day when you’re caring for someone in their own home as every day is different, with new challenges, responsibilities and experiences. At In Home Care, we always put our customers front and centre, which means tailoring our care to their specific needs so they can live life on their own terms.
Do I Need Experience or any Qualifications For a Carer job?
You don’t need any specific experience to apply to be a carer at In Home Care. When you join us, we’ll provide you with CQC-approved training, which will give you all the skills you need to provide the high level of care we expect from all our employees. You’ll also have the option to further your training and career by achieving qualifications in Health & Social Care (levels 2, 3 & 5.)
Applying with us is simple you can fill out an application form on our website under “Jobs.” After this, there is a quick chat to discuss the role and this gives you the opportunity to learn more about what’s involved and find out if it’s right for you. Once this call has been done, that is when the full application for the role is done and an interview will be scheduled if you are the right fit for the role. At the interview stage we ask that you bring these documents:
- Three forms of identification, e.g. passport, driving licence, birth certificate, or recent utility bill or bank statement (not mobile phone)
- Any relative care certificates such as Diplomas/NVQ PLUS/ all mandatory & care certificates
- Your current DBS number or DBS certificate
- Three references, usually from two previous employers plus a character reference
We apply for the DBS certificate for you if you do not already have one.
Is being a Carer hard work and is it right for me?
Having a passion for helping people is essential. You will also need patience, exceptional communication skills and compassion for others.
Some other key skills and attributes include:
- A friendly and approachable nature (a good sense of humour is also helpful)
- The ability to build relationships with clients and their families and help them feel comfortable and safe
- Patience and sensitivity when communicating with others, and being accepting of clients who may not want to talk
- The ability to keep calm under pressure, as clients may sometimes be anxious or some problems may appear last minute that you cannot plan for
- Critical thinking and problem-solving, as you’ll need to handle new situations to the best of your ability
What is the main job of a Carer?
Care Workers may find themselves working with the elderly, and people with disabilities or learning difficulties.
The main roles of a carer are:
- Providing emotional support to clients and their families
- Always keeping the client comfortable and at ease
- Personal care which can include washing, dressing, and helping your client go to the toilet
- Medication administration, which includes prompting medication at the appropriate times.
- Food and fluid support, which could be as simple as making a cup of tea or could involve food preparation
- Domestic support, which could include hoovering, laundry, dusting, cleaning, plating and serving meals and washing up
- Reporting and recording
Can Carers work part-time?
Yes, our jobs are mostly flexible hours, and this means that you can work part-time. This will always be listed in the job advert, however, if you are ever unsure, please get in touch with us.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a care worker is a great way to make a difference in the lives of others. It can be demanding and challenging, but extremely rewarding to help others.
Education and professional development are always something you can do, which will allow you to continue to build your skills and knowledge throughout your career.
