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Becoming a qualified carer - what you need to know

Author: Anna Preston
by Anna Preston
Posted: Oct 30, 2017

As our population ages, the UK is experiencing an increasing number of vulnerable people in society needing care. Some of these people need infrequent support whilst others require 24/7 live in care assistance. Caring can be a tough profession, but also incredibly rewarding as it makes a real difference to the quality of someone's life.

Whilst you won't always need a formal qualification to get live in care jobs, you need to ask yourself if you possess the following qualities:

Be an excellent communicator

Carers are required to deal with people who are experiencing deteriorating hearing, sight and reduced communication skills, particularly if they are dementia sufferers. Ensuring you offer clear and concise methods of communication can be invaluable.

Be patient

As people get older, or sick, their movement slows down, as can their speech. They will often find it hard to remember words and lose their train of thought. They may become repetitive which is frustrating both for them and for you. Showing patience towards the people that you are caring for is a quality that is highly appreciated by both them and their families.

Be a problem solver

As a carer, your role is to respond to any problem or request made by the person you are caring for. You may need to be creative to find ways around any of the limitations that they are experiencing such as reduced mobility and communication, to solve their problems.

Be physically fit

Many people requiring care will need assistance in getting up and down from their chair and bed and then moving around. They may need assistance with toileting and showering. Not only do you need strength for these personal tasks, you will be spending a lot of time on your feet, as much of the work that you will be required to do is quite physical. For example, cleaning, cooking, and household tasks.

Be compassionate

As a carer, one of your main tasks will be to help the people you are caring for to maintain their dignity. Showing compassion towards them when assisting them with personal tasks will help to maintain their pride and will always be appreciated by both the individual and their loved ones.

If you feel that you possess these qualities then it may be helpful to try volunteering in the community first of all to see if the job is right for you before you commit to a career in caring, or pursue any further qualifications in care. There are different types of jobs available to you as a carer, both in residential homes or in a person's own home, providing one to one care, or care of a couple. You often won't need formal qualifications but will need to understand the social welfare system and the law surrounding care work. Most importantly employers will be looking for experience, so gaining experience in any way you can will be one of your most valuable assets. Caring is more about on the job training so volunteer work can really help to build up this experience. Once you have gained a job offer you may be able to access day release training or part-time college courses where you are assessed on the job.

About the Author

The author has written and published articles on a wide range of topics including Small Business Advice, Tax and Accounting, Interior Design, House Renovation and Project Management.

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Author: Anna Preston
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Anna Preston

Member since: Apr 29, 2015
Published articles: 180

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