FAQs.

  • I’m new to this sector. What is the difference between social work and social care work?

    Social workers must have a degree in social work and be registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professionals’ Council). It is your responsibility to assess the care requirements of service users, and work alongside doctors and care professionals to advise on how you can collectively improve upon the lives of those within your care. 

    Social care workers tend to be involved in the practical support of one or two service users: helping individuals complete daily tasks and assisting them in everyday life. Social care workers do not always need qualifications to get a job in this field but they will usually be expected to train towards a qualification as they work.

    Some employers and/or roles will require specific training to be completed - notably when working with children or adults who display challenging behaviour. These circumstances often demand the support of a qualified social care worker - usually trained to NVQ level.

  • Are there any checks I need to complete before starting my work in social care?

    Because social care workers deal with vulnerable or physically frail people, all applicants must undergo pre-employment checks, including:

    • A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
    • Protection of Children Act (PoCA) when working with children (under 18)
    • Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA) list when working in registered care homes

    Please note: an enhanced DBS should cover all of the above as long as ‘child and adult workforce’ has been specified: we conduct these checks as a matter of course.

    It should be our mutual aim to improve public trust in social care. Register with Randstad Care and we’ll support you through the necessary checks.

  • Will I be able to work flexible hours?

    Yes. Most jobs in social care (particularly residential care) need people who can work flexible hours. Many social care workers (support workers) work part time or flexi-time as it suits the user, the employer and the care worker. 

    Residential care continues 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Residential managers have large rotas to fill and can usually offer staff the flexibility of picking up odd shifts or working full time.

    Remember to ask about flexible working when you apply.

read more about careers in care.

see all articles