Advantages and disadvantages of becoming a care worker in the UK
Many people rely on care workers, and a career in care in the UK may be life-changing for both clients and carers. So, if you want to change people's lives as a care worker in the UK, you need to know certain things beforehand. Are you willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to provide exceptional care to those in need? Then a profession as a care worker is ideal for you.
Read this blog to find out everything you need to know about working as a care worker in the UK.
What is a care worker?
A care worker assists vulnerable individuals in managing their daily routines and living as independently as possible. There are various advantages and disadvantages to becoming a care worker in the UK.
Advantages of becoming a care worker in the UK
A care worker's job is more of a calling than a job. There are various advantages that the care worker in the UK enjoys; some of them are as follows:
1. Opportunity to help people:
By choosing a career as a care worker, you will be provided with a great opportunity to help people—basically, help them with their daily needs, empower them, and lead a better life. Even though your job might seem tiring, you will have the immense pleasure of serving humanity.
2. Stimulating work environment:
Every day of work might not be the same for a care worker in the UK. Some days you can experience a fast-paced workday, while on other days you will be just managing your daily routine. The constant possibility of a changing environment is stimulating for many who work as care workers in the UK.
3. Flexible working hours:
The care sector often comes with flexible work shifts. Depending on the needs of the client and the organisation you are working for, you will be given the opportunity to choose your shifts. This will help you have a work-life balance, which most other jobs don't offer.
4. Training and development opportunities:
A career as a care worker can be very helpful for your professional growth and development. Along with your qualification, you will receive additional on-the-job and off-the-job training to improve your skills.
These are just a few of the advantages a care worker enjoys in the UK. However, there are many disadvantages as well. They are as follows:
1. Non-traditional schedule:
If you are looking for a typical 9-to-5 job, then this is not the career you should opt for. There can be days when your duty might get stretched beyond your work hours when the client needs your assistance a bit more.
2. Emotional and physical challenges:
Being a care worker can be highly demanding and can challenge you mentally, physically, and emotionally. By the end of the day, you might feel emotionally and physically drained due to hectic schedules.
3. Being unvalued:
One of the biggest reasons why care workers in the UK are leaving their jobs and switching careers is the lack of respect and value for the services they provide. Even though their services are vital, many people do not place that much value on them.
4. Difficult clients and their families:
You might have to deal with many kinds of people. Some clients may be uncooperative with the service, while others' families may make it difficult for you to work. You should be prepared for such behaviour from people.
These are some of the disadvantages of being a care worker in the UK. If you are still willing to pursue your dream and get a job in this field, here is how you can become one:
How do I become a care worker in the UK?
If you are looking forward to becoming a care worker in the UK, there are a few things you should know before opting for a course. They are as follows:
1. Consider if this career is the right choice for you:
A career as a carer might sound very appealing for many reasons, as there are many sectors in social care with many career prospects. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Take one of these skills assessments from the National Careers Service to learn about careers that might be right for you.
2. Find your niche:
Once you've determined that this is the right path for you, you must identify your niche. There are various types of care workers, with each sector, such as adult, disabled, elderly, and others, having different responsibilities. Some of these roles may necessitate the acquisition of specialised credentials, certifications, and qualifications. Finding your niche will help you understand what each job requires so that you can prepare yourself accordingly.
3. Education:
A college course may help you when you are looking for a job. For instance, you can take a
Level 1 Certificate in Health and Social Care
Level 2 Diploma in Care
T Level in Health
What is the entry requirement for college?
You'll normally need the following for a college course:
For a level 1 course - 2 or fewer GCSEs in grades 3 to 1 (D to G), or an equivalent qualification.
For a level 2 course – 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent
For a T-level – 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths
4. Apprenticeship
You could become a care worker by completing an intermediate adult care worker apprenticeship or an advanced adult care worker apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements, but it may help you get in if you have:
Some GCSEs, usually comprising English and math, or equivalent, are required for an intermediate apprenticeship.
5 GCSEs in grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent, including English and arithmetic, are required for an advanced apprenticeship.
5. Volunteering
You might help vulnerable people by volunteering at a care home, charity, hospital, or hospice. You can find volunteering opportunities at the National Council of Volunteering Organisations (NCVO).
6. Direct Application
You could apply directly and receive on-the-job training. You'll find it useful to have experience working with people. Some employers may expect you to have GCSEs in English and math in grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent.
How much does a care worker in the UK earn?
A care worker in the UK on average earns £23,550 per year, or £12.08 per hour. Entry-level pay rates begin at £21,200 per year, with most experienced workers earning up to £39,359 per year.
Nurses Group Homecare is the leading care provider in Yeovil, UK, with years of experience in the care industry. If you are looking for a supportive, inclusive, and fruitful job as a care worker in the UK, look no further, as we are the best for both care staff and clients.