Showing compassion..
If the plight of vulnerable people concerns you then a job as a carer could be ideal
IF YOU have a caring nature and an interest in the welfare of others, a career as a carer could be right for you.
There are no formal qualifications required so it could suit a school-leaver or those seeking a change in direction.
It’s a great option for someone with a personable nature, who likes meeting new people, and who wants to make a difference to the lives of others.
It’s Care Home Week 2018, so we looked at what the role involves.
THE LOWDOWN
As a care worker, you could be working with children, vulnerable adults or the elderly.
The role could involve helping people in their own homes, at a day centre or a nursing home.
Practical duties are likely to include providing assistance with personal care, such as washing, dressing, and looking after hair, teeth and nails.
Carers also provide help with toileting, food preparation and feeding, as well as giving out medication.
If caring for someone in their own home, you’ll probably carry out some general tasks, such as housework, laundry and shopping.
While these practical duties play a big part in the job, an important aspect of the role of the carer is to look after the emotional needs of the patient, too.
This means providing companionship, listening to and talking to the patient, and making sure their dignity is observed.
You’ll need to be physically strong and fit as the job could involve lifting patients in and out of bed.
Other important traits include having a caring nature, the ability to treat people with tact and sensitivity, excellent people skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
For many people, being a carer is a career in itself while, for others, it could pave the way for progression into other areas, such as nursing or being a paramedic.
THE PAY
Those just starting out as a care worker can expect to earn between £12,500 and £16,000, rising to about £17,000 to £19,000 with more experience.
Highly experienced carers – such as though in a supervisory role – could take a home a salary of around £25,000.
If you work night shifts or weekends, you may be paid more.
THE TRAINING
There are no set requirements or formal qualifications required to work as a carer – most of the training is done on the job.
Previous experience – perhaps from voluntary work or caring for someone you know – could be beneficial. An apprenticeship, where you earn while learning a trade, could be another route into this career.
Another option is taking a college course in a relevant subject, such as the Health and Social care SCQF Level 4 qualification available at some Scottish further education institutions.
THE CONTACTS
Scottish Care, www.scottishcare. org
Scottish Qualifications Authority, www.sqa.org.uk
Skills Development Scotland, www.skillsdevelopmentscotland. co.uk