Community care professionals are based in the community, and care for people with special needs. They assist with personal care and aim to give their clients a sense of independence by making their lives as normal as possible.
Who can I work for?
The NHS and private healthcare firms are the main employers of community care workers. Some people that require care employ professional carers directly.
Where and when can I work?
Anywhere in the UK. Community care professionals will usually have a set area in their community that they will cover. Hours can be long and may require someone on call or working through the night, but this depends on the caseload.
What can I earn?
Community care assistants usually start on a salary of around £14,000 – £16,000 a year. This can increase to between £17,000 and £20,000 with experience. Senior community care assistants can earn up to £26,000 a year.
What are the benefits?
This is an important position because as a community carer you work to provide your client with a certain level of care, while also allowing them the freedom to remain at home.
Are there chances of promotion?
Community carers can go on to more senior positions as their level of experience grows. However, progression may depend on the qualifications an individual has.
What will I be responsible for?
You will be responsible for assisting with personal care mainly, which may include bathing, washing, shaving, oral hygiene, hair care, dressing and undressing. You will also be expected to assist with toilet and continence requirements, the monitoring and supervision of medication, and with other health related activities too.
Do I need any experience?
Specific experience or qualifications are not necessarily required for this type of role. Any previous experience relevant to the position will be useful. Anybody looking to climb the community care career ladder may wish to look into NVQs and AVCE qualifications in areas such as health and social care.
What attributes are needed?
Community care professionals need to have a friendly approach, the ability to be tactful and sensitive, respect for the client and their families and a commitment to the job.
Care assistants need to have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work with all kinds of people in situations that can be stressful or emotionally draining.