What are the key responsibilities for care assistant jobs?

 

There are very few jobs where you can feel that you are making a direct and immediate difference in the quality of life of other people. If you enjoy helping people and want to do it as a career, then one of the many and varied care assistant jobs may be ideal for you.

You can offer companionship to the elderly, arrange activities for children with disabilities, teach life skills to people in need of mental health, or provide physical support to people with disabilities. Whatever you are doing, however, you are making a difference, and, if it inspires you here, are the key tasks, skills, and qualifications you need to become a personal care assistant.

Health Care Assistant Jobs: What's Involved?

A care assistant is also known as a support worker. Your responsibilities are largely determined by who you are supporting and what they need.

You can find yourself working with people in their homes in shelters, day centers or places like nursing homes.

Your duties are likely to include:

Helping people in washing, dressing and feeding

Organizing and moving work around the house (eg cleaning, washing and shopping)

Teaching life skills like money management and communication

Working with other care professionals to create and implement care and development plans

Arranging leisure activities

What is the need for a care assistant to be successful?

What is required for this role is a friendly, empowered and caring attitude. You will need to relate to people from a wide variety of backgrounds and do your work with patience and a sense of humor.

Your work hours as well as your behavior towards people require a flexible approach. Usually each week your hours may vary by staff. Your working hours may include evenings, weekends or split shifts. If you work in a residential way, you may need to work overnight. There is a lot of opportunity for part-time work due to the work being conducted by Shifts.

Qualifications are not required, although there are many 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 what is involved in the work and gain experience from it. To do this, you can volunteer with an organization that supports vulnerable people or you may be able to draw on your personal experience caring for a friend or family member.

Is a career as a career assistant right for you?

The rewards of working as a care assistant don't just come from helping other people. You will work as part of a close-knight team that all focus on a single goal. There is a considerable degree of flexibility when you work and you are always encouraged to use your initiative.

However, it is essential that you have a lot of strategies, sensitivity, and a strong sense of discretion. Patience and a great sense of humor will also put you in a good position.