Placement Overview

This VIP works in a local nursing home providing care to the residents.

Generic Job Description for a Care Assistant

Care Assistants work in hospitals and other institutes that provide care such as nursing homes. They look after the comfort and well-being of patients, and provide support in everyday tasks.

The work of a Care Assistant might involve helping patients clean and feed themselves, making beds and turning patients to avoid bedsores, preparing food and medication, cleaning and tidying, talking to patients and keeping them company when they feel lonely.

Some Care Assistants may assist with medical procedures such as taking blood and urine samples, checking blood pressure and carrying out examinations.

Skills:

• Caring, warm and friendly nature
• Good listening skills
• Good communication skills
• Patience
• Reliability
• Physical fitness
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Willingness to carry out unpleasant tasks 

Pay:

• Entry £10,000 or less
• Experienced and trained Care Assistants can earn up to £15,000 

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Up to 40 hours a week on a rote basis
• Evening and weekend work is likely
• Part time and flexible hours are often available

Environment:

• Most work is in hospitals, care homes, nursing homes and hospices
• Bending and lifting is common  

Qualifications:

• No set entry requirements
• Experience of voluntary care work is helpful
• Applicants may have a physical and background check to ensure they are suitable for the job
• NVQ’s Levels 2 and 3 are available in Health and Social Care

Training:

• Training is work based
• Apprenticeships are widely available
• Training may include health and safety, first aid, care skills, manual handling techniques 

Opportunities:

• The NHS is the largest employer, with around 220,000 healthcare assistants
• Other employers include local authorities, private and residential care homes, hospices and private agencies

Links:

www.nhscareers.nhs.uk  - NHS Careers