Care worker

Daily tasks will differ depending on whether you work with a client in their own home or in a care setting.

You could:

• chat with clients and get to know their background, interests and needs
•  help with washing, dressing and personal care
•  make food, assist with eating and make sure medication is taken if needed
•  support clients to take part in physical and social activities
•  do routine checks of weight, temperature and blood pressure
•  notify senior staff of any concerns over clients' health and wellbeing
•  keep client records and care plans up to date

• sensitivity and understanding
• a desire to help people
• the ability to work well with others
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You might find it helpful to have a driving licence, for example, if your role involves travelling between clients to provide care at home.

A good level of fitness is useful, because you may need to help lift or move people as part of this job.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• volunteering
• applying directly

While employed as a care worker you can develop your skills by training in specific areas, such as:

• autism awareness
•  supporting people with dementia
•  communication skills, like Makaton or Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

With experience, you can become a senior care worker, or palliative care assistant.

You can also move into care team supervision or care services management, if you get further qualifications.