Job Requirements

There are different terms and conditions, depending on the setting. You will need to think about your own commitments and what working pattern you can manage – for example, some social care work requires shift work.

If you choose a job that includes helping people to get up, or prepare for bed, you need to be able to commit to working those hours.

Residential care work might mean you have to ‘sleep in’ – i.e. you spend the night – at the home as a staff member on call if anything should happen.

You might choose to be night care staff which means you only work at night, helping people get ready for bed and seeing to any of their needs throughout the night.

Whichever job you are in, your employer should provide the training you need and any specialised equipment you need to carry out your role. The rate of pay varies with each job but should be made clear at the interview.

Look at these job descriptions and share your thoughts with your fellow learners about the terms and conditions they highlight.

Residential Child Care Worker

1. You must work with children and young people according to the individual’s needs.
2. You must assist in the coordination of activities within the home and ensure that they are well managed and produce safe and consistent care.
3. You must get involved in, and organise, activities which are in the best interests, and meet the needs of the young people.
4. You must ensure that the procedures for the security, monitoring, administration, and control of medication are followed.
5. You must encourage the young people to follow their own cultural needs and preferences.
6. You must be an effective team worker.
7. You must participate in training as required.
8. You must maintain accurate records.
9. You must observe confidentiality of information.
10. Flexible hours, including nights and weekends.

Domiciliary Care Worker with Older People

1. You must be passionate about caring and willing to develop your skills and knowledge.
2. You must be friendly and supportive toward vulnerable adults.
3. You must be reliable and flexible.
4. You must have excellent communications skills and the ability to build relationships.
5. You must be patient and keep calm under pressure.
6. Excellent pay rates with guaranteed hours contract.
7. Flexible working hours with permanent/temporary positions available.
8. Career development opportunities are available.
9. Paid mileage.

Now we need to think about whether this work is for you and what your next steps are.