Senior Carer Jobs
Carers are the backbone of the adult social care sector.
They provide personal and practical support to people who need it. This might be as a home carer helping with meal preparation or bathing. It could be working in a nursing home to support residents with dressing, taking part in activities, eating and socialising.
As a carer you make every day happier, safer and more independent for someone who needs support.
Do I need qualifications?
To start working as a carer you need the right attitude and personal qualities. Qualifications are appreciated, but not essential.
When you begin working for a care service you will receive a full induction and training to do the role. You can learn on the job and possibly even gain qualifications while you work.
What would I do, day-to-day?
- Help with personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
- Prepare meals and light housework
- Support with medication
- Provide companionship and social interaction
- Accompany clients to appointments or shopping
Working in care means lots of smiles!
What kind of people are employers looking for?
The short answer is anyone who wants to work in care!
The industry is keen to recruit motivated people with the right qualities. They are looking for people who want to do the job. Candidates who are reliable, genuine, compassionate and good with people.
In particular, the care sector needs more:
- Men – Men are under-represented in the care sector. Some people would prefer to be looked after by someone of the same sex, so having more male carers available is important.
- Young people – Just like with men, there are young people in care who would like to have younger carers who understand their needs and interests. Care is a great career for young people, so why not give it a go?
- Local people – Local knowledge can be a real benefit when working as a carer. It can help you connect with your clients. Plus it means you’ll have an easy commute!
Karina, Senior CarerMy favourite thing about working in social care is meeting new people. You meet different age groups, different experiences. You hear different stories.
The benefits
Decent pay. For an entry-level care role you will be paid minimum wage, or maybe more. Lots of employers will pay more to attract good quality staff. You might be offered other financial benefits like a company pension.
Training. You will receive full training on the job and possibly also be supported to take qualifications.
Flexibility. Lots of care jobs offer flexible hours that can suit your lifestyle.
Making a difference. This is hands-down one of the most rewarding jobs you can do. If care work suits you it can make a great career and give you real job satisfaction. You will go home each day knowing you have made someone’s life better. Not many jobs offer that.
A good career. Social care is growing fast. There are more people employed in social care than in the NHS. This means that there are lots of opportunities available for people who want to develop their skills and career.
WATCH: Karina’s experience as a Senior Carer
Karina works as a senior carer for a home care provider. She provides care that enables people to live in the comfort of their own home. The role fits around her parenting responsibilities.
In this video, Karina talks about her job and the things she’s learned about herself while doing it. As well as enjoying her work, she’s also had the opportunity to gain qualifications.
Karina tells us about her role as Senior Carer in homecare, providing care that enables people to live in the comfort of their own home.