- sensitivity and understanding
- a desire to help people
- the ability to work well with others
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- customer service skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to understand people’s reactions
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Your day-to-day tasks will vary depending on the needs of the person you're caring for.
For people who need support to live at home and in their community, you'll:
- help with washing and dressing
- make food or help with eating
- get to know their interests and needs
- do household jobs, like washing clothes and shopping
- monitor their weight and record any concerns they have
- check they're taking their prescribed medications
- support their physical and mental wellbeing through activities
You could also:
- support families who have new caring responsibilities
- give emotional and practical support to children and young people
- work with other health and social care professionals
- help organise leisure activities and outings
You may need to wear a uniform.
You could work at an adult care home, at a client's home or stay overnight at people's homes.
Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.
While employed as a care worker you can develop your skills by training in specific areas, like autism awareness, communication skills or supporting people with dementia.
With experience, you can become a lead care worker. You can also move into more senior jobs, like managing people or services, if you study for further qualifications. For example, a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, or a degree in social work or nursing.
You can find out more about careers in care from:Think Care Careers; Department of Health and Social Care; Social Care TV