How do I get a job as a carer?

Answered by Hannah Kelly

For the right person, a career in social care can be very rewarding. If you enjoy getting to know people, take pleasure in acts of service, and have a genuine interest in helping others, it could well be the path for you. It’s not without its challenges, though — you’ll see people at their best and their worst, and you’re likely to encounter situations you hadn’t planned for. That said, the level of satisfaction you can feel when your support has made a positive difference to someone’s day — or even their life — is hard to beat.

Do your research

The best place to start is by researching the different types of care providers in your local area. A nursing home or care home is where you would work on-site, supporting the residents who live there. In domiciliary care, you would travel to different locations to support people in their own homes. In a residential home, support and guidance are readily available on-site, whereas in domiciliary care you’re often working alone. These are important things to consider when thinking about which environment may suit you best.

…then apply 

Once you’ve thought this through, you can apply for a position with your chosen care provider. Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience — everyone starts somewhere, and each provider will have their own induction and ongoing training programme. The qualities that providers are typically looking for include:

• A strong desire to help others

• An understanding and appreciation that everyone is different and will want their care delivered in different ways

• Patience

• A willingness to learn

• A positive attitude towards diversity

• Flexibility

A career in social care can be truly fulfilling — this could be the start of something special.

Ask the Care Specialists