Looking after others is a hugely rewarding job, and there has never been a better time to consider a career in adult social care.
Felicia, a 36-year-old mother-of-one from Brazil, knew she wanted to care for older adults when she moved to Warrington in Cheshire.
“It’s so rewarding,” she says. “When you achieve small goals and help someone to become more independent or happier, you really feel valuable to them.”
Felicia got a job at a local care home three years ago, and hasn’t looked back.
Working 25 hours a week means she can fit her job around her family life, and like all adult social care work, it is hugely varied.
There are many different types of jobs available, and no two days are the same.
Having the right qualities is all you need, since there’s on-the-job training for everything else and it’s usually a simple and quick process to start work.
One resident who is benefitting from Felicia’s care work is 91-year-old Cora.
“Felicia is very helpful in every respect,” she says. “We sew together and we love a chat and a laugh – we share the same sense of humour and that’s very important.”
Danielle, 35, has been caring for 28-year-old Patrick at supported housing in Walsall for the last three years.
“Patrick leads a very full life and loves a laugh and joke so I find it really rewarding to play such a big part in supporting him, ensuring he has an enjoyable life,” says Danielle.
“We’ll go to the supermarket together and do other chores together, such as cooking. I have to keep health and safety in mind so he’ll help stir pasta sauce or tip pasta into the pan, but I keep an eye to make sure he’s not in danger from the hot cooker or oven. He can clear up, though he’s not too keen on that.”
She says she finishes each day with “a smile on my face knowing I’ve given 100 per cent to my job which is like a home from home for me”.
Danielle adds: “That makes me feel I’m getting it right because this is Patrick’s home, where he should feel safe and relaxed and know that I’ll support him to enjoy his life and not worry about anything.
“It’s a very flexible job and would fit in with most people’s lives and families and it’s important to remember that a huge variety of people need different types of care.
“We try to get Patrick involved in everything, to feel as independent and confident as possible, and that’s only possible through the right support.”
For a meaningful career where you can make a difference to people’s lives every single day, adult social care could be for you.
Search for a job near you today at adultsocialcare.co.uk
