There are very few jobs where you can feel you are making a direct and immediate difference to the quality of life of others. If you enjoy helping people and want to do it as a career, one of the many varied healthcare assistant jobs could be ideal for you.
You may be offering companionship to the elderly, arranging activities for children with learning disabilities, teaching life skills to those with mental health needs or offering physical support to someone with disabilities. Whatever you're doing, you'll be having a positive impact on not only that individual but their family too. If this is what motivates you here are the key responsibilities of a care worker and the skills and qualifications you need to become one.
what do care assistants do
Care assistants are also known as support workers. Your responsibilities are largely determined by who you're supporting and what needs they have.
You could find yourself working with people in their own homes, in sheltered housing, at day centres or in places like nursing homes.
Typical care assistant duties are likely to include:
- Helping people with washing, dressing and eating
- Organising and carrying out work around the house (such as cleaning, laundry and shopping)
- Teaching life skills such as money management and communication
- Working with other care professionals to create and implement care and development plans
- Arranging leisure activities
success in healthcare assistant jobs
A friendly, empathetic and caring approach is essential for this role. You'll need to be able to relate to people from a variety of different backgrounds and conduct your work with patience and a sense of humour.
A flexible approach is needed to your working hours as well as in your behaviour towards people. Healthcare assistant jobs often include evenings, weekends or split shifts, and your hours each week may vary according to the staff rota.
If you work residentially, you may be required to work overnight. Because care assistant duties can be organised by shifts, there are plenty of opportunities for part-time work.
what education and qualifications are required
Qualifications are not essential, although there are several health and social care BTECs and Diplomas available that can help demonstrate your commitment to care as a career.
What's more important is your ability to demonstrate that you understand the responsibilities of a care worker and have gained experience in it. To do this, you could volunteer with an organisation that supports vulnerable people or you may be able to draw on your personal experience of caring for a friend or family member.
is a career as a care assistant right for you
The rewards of working as a care assistant do not just come from helping other people.
You'll work as part of a close-knit team who are all focused on the same goals. There's a considerable degree of flexibility when you work in care, and you are encouraged to always use your initiative.
It is essential, however, that you have a great deal of tact, sensitivity and a strong understanding of discretion. Patience and a great sense of humour will also stand you in good stead. If you'd like to find out more about care worker responsibilities, take a look at the current healthcare assistant jobs on offer.
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