Care workers help vulnerable people to manage their daily activities and to live as independently as possible.
£12,500 Starter
to£25,000 Experienced
35 to 40 a week
evenings / weekends on shifts
You can get into this job through:
You could take a college course, which may help when you look for work. Courses include:
You'll usually need:
You could get into this job through an adult care worker intermediate apprenticeship or a lead adult care worker advanced apprenticeship.
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:
You could do voluntary work with an organisation that supports vulnerable people, for example a:
Do-it has more information on voluntary opportunities in your area.
You could apply directly and do training on the job. You'll find it useful to have experience of working with people.
Some employers may expect you to have GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications.
Time spent caring for someone you know also counts as having experience in a caring role.
You can find out more about careers in care from:
You'll need:
You'll need to:
A driving licence may be helpful if you're going to be working on shifts outside of public transport hours.
It will help to be physically fit, as you may need to help lift or move people.
Your day-to-day tasks will vary depending on the needs of the person you're caring for.
For people who need support to live at home and in their community, you'll:
You could also:
You could work at an adult care home, at a client's home or stay overnight at people's homes.
Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.
You may need to wear a uniform.
While employed as a care worker you can develop your skills by training in specific areas, like autism awareness, communication skills or supporting people with dementia.
With experience, you can become a lead care worker. You can also move into more senior jobs, like managing people or services, if you study for further qualifications. For example, a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, or a degree in social work or nursing.
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