The older generation have done a lot for us and there are some young people who may not get the same chances as the rest of us without a little help. So if you’re looking for a rewarding job, that really gives back to society and helps people who need it most, choose to become a professional carer.

Whether in a nursing home, as a live-in aid or dropping in at set intervals throughout the day, the time you spend with this person could help them to live a more independent life. So if you like helping people, this may be the job for you.

Are you considering a career in care? Then here’s how you can start your journey to getting the job.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Carer?

If you are looking to have a career in care then it is important to have a good working knowledge of the social welfare system, however, there are no formal qualifications required. In most cases, knowledge can be learnt on the job and therefore this career is open to a broad spectrum of people, even those with few qualifications or have been out of work for an extended period of time.

The first three months of any caring job will be an induction where training will help you build a foundation of knowledge.

And depending on which organisation you work with, you may be able to care part-time alongside a training and development course at a local college, to add a workplace qualification to your CV. Relevant qualifications can be anything from an NVQ in Care and Management or Health and Social Care, to a university degree.

What Characteristics Make the Perfect Carer?

Working with vulnerable people means you will be required outside of the regular 9 ‘til 5 working schedule, and it’s unquestionably hard work. But it is also an extremely rewarding career, as you can make a genuine difference in a person’s life.

The best carers are patient, a people person and excellent communicators. They are good at problem solving, calm under pressure and are physically fit. Does this sound like you?

What Level of Employment Screening Will I Need?

Caring is a job which involves working with vulnerable adults or children every day and therefore, a high level of screening is required. Employers should insist on an enhanced DBS check during employment screening to ensure you are safe to work in this industry. And reference to the barred list is also insisted upon in many situations.

If you will be working in a care environment handling personal, sensitive or medical records, but will have limited contact with children or vulnerable adults, you will only need a standard DBS check.

Want to learn more about the barred list, enhanced checks or standard employment screening? Then give us a call on 01443 799900 or email us at info@cbscreening.co.uk