Care Assistant

A Care Assistant helps vulnerable people who require additional support, either in a care home or in their own home. You may work with lots of different people including older people, adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, substance misuse issues and mental health conditions.

You will get to know the people you provide care for well; this includes their likes, dislikes, and individual needs. No two days are the same and what you do will depend on people’s needs and may include physical and emotional support. The ultimate role of a care assistant is to help people maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.

Care Assistant is also known as Care Worker, Home Carers, Healthcare Assistant .

Role Characteristics

Support and care for people
Help people with social and physical activities
Assist with personal care such as washing, dressing and eating
Monitor people's conditions, take their temperature, pulse, weight and help with medication
Book and accompany people at appointments
Work with other health and care professionals

Skills

Team work
Empathy
Resilience
Attention to detail
Observation
Communication

Day in the life

Watch this video to find out more about the crucial role of a Care Assistant

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

Pre-employment Programmes

Volunteering or work experience

Apply directly

GCSEs

BTEC

How to become

There are many routes into becoming a Care Assistant; these include apprenticeships, volunteering or work experience.

Employers may expect GCSEs in English and maths or a qualification in health and care, but you could complete these once you're hired.
It might be helpful to have experience working in a similar role or with vulnerable adults. You could gain this experience through a volunteering, work experience, an apprenticeship or from your personal life.

It is important to check your preferred course provider's entry requirements for guidance.

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

A Care Assistant is a great stepping stone into other roles within health and care. With experience you could become a Senior Care Assistant, leading a team of Care Assistants and training others. With further training you could become an Adult Nurse, Midwife or Occupational Therapist.