Before applying for any qualifications, it is important to completely understand the role of a care worker, and to know what the job entails. A care worker is there to provide support and assistance for a person who is need of care. Care workers may find themselves working with a vulnerable adult, elderly individual or someone with a disability, and is able to provide support within their daily lives. The level of assistance may vary depending on the person you are caring for, therefore you will have the responsibility of providing the best possible care you can offer.

As a care worker, your main duties may include:

• Assisting a client with any physical tasks or other every day activities, such as cooking or shopping
• You will be working directly with the client, their families and possibly other professionals to help identify any specific needs
• Personal care to clients depending on their needs, for example feeding or dressing
• Providing emotional support for clients and their families

When becoming a care worker, you will be supporting in all aspects of their daily lives, including physical and social activities, feeding, personal care and mobility.

There are key skills you will need to have in order to fulfil the requirements of a carer:

• To have passion and enthusiasm for working in the care industry
• Good listening and communication skills
• A positive, enthusiastic and can-do attitude
• To understand and follow specific policies and procedures
• To be able to approach sensitive situations in a sensible and confident manner
• The ability to keep calm in any situation and able to work under pressure
• To be able to use your own initiative when needed
• A great understanding of health, safety and cleanliness