Job satisfaction can be a tricky thing to find.
Many of us complain about our jobs, but a role in adult social care can offer you and others so much that – despite being challenging at times – you will always finish the day knowing you’ve helped someone live their life in the very best way.
If you are naturally caring, patient, responsible and hardworking, adult social care could be the perfect role for you.
The community spirit within the workforce is unique to this type of work, and the roles are so rewarding in not only how you can make those you care for feel, but also how you feel yourself.
Working in adult social care offers extensive training and support to help you progress at a pace you feel comfortable.
There are a range of different shift patterns that can work around your commitments too, so you can make the job work for you. No two days are the same and you will be able to develop meaningful and lasting relationships.
Social care minister, Maree Todd, said: “Working in adult social care can be challenging but offers the opportunity to have a hugely positive impact on people’s lives on a daily basis.
“What I love hearing about is the community spirit and connection between those using services and those caring for them. If you think you might be a good fit for a job in adult social care, I’d encourage you to visit www.CareToCare.scot to find out more.”
A role in adult social care suits a wide range of people. You could be looking for a career change, leaving education, or looking for a job where you can make an impact on someone’s life.
You don’t need any qualifications to start, and there are a variety of roles available – all you need to do is apply.
Karis was born and raised in Shetland and has known from early on in her life that she had the key characteristics to become a carer and help look after people. She’s since gone on to forge a career in adult social care and take advantage of numerous training opportunities to rapidly progress in her role.
She said: “As a young girl, I always had a real interest and passion for looking after other people, particularly the elderly, so I was lucky in that I always had a pretty good idea of what I wanted to do in life.
“I left school at 16 and went straight to Shetland College to start learning more about what the role entails. The course was brilliant as it was full of practical elements and I was able to get out and about and gain first-hand experience at residential care centres.
“Following this, I was fortunate enough to get my role with Crossreach which has been brilliant. Thanks to Crossreach, I gained my SVQ3 in 2019, and then my SVQ4 earlier this year.
“It’s a great feeling knowing that some of the simple things many take for granted, like sitting down for a coffee and a chat, can light up someone’s day.
“If you’re someone that’s compassionate and naturally puts others above yourself, then I really feel a role in adult social care could be for you.”
Care worker roles and responsibilities
Adult social care covers all forms of personal and practical support for adults who need extra support to stay healthy, play a part in their community and lead as fulfilling a life as possible. It’s delivered by the voluntary sector (charities/not-for-profit), independent providers (including private companies and family-run businesses), through local government (social care and health services) and people arranging their own support through personal assistants.
It includes many types of support and help, from care homes, day services, outreach and crisis support, to an individual’s own home.
In these roles, you’ll help people live their day-to-day lives, including helping them continue to enjoy their social life and stay connected with family and friends, as well as helping them with personal care. Depending on the person you are supporting you could also be supporting with other aspects of housekeeping such as shopping or meal preparation, as well as helping them access healthcare and other services.
Skills Development Scotland is the national skills agency that helps people and businesses across the country develop their skills.
Sharon McIntyre, head of SDS’ careers service said: “Our careers advisers are on hand all year round in schools, in our centres and local community venues across Scotland, online at myworldofwork.co.uk, or through our Helpline on 0800 917 8000 – to offer expert advice and guidance to anyone interested in exploring a career in health and social care.”
George was enjoying a career in care as a service manager back in 2020. Now, after the pandemic, George is still doing the job he loves.
He said: “Not long after I moved back from Australia, the pandemic hit and, of course, threw everything on its head, no matter what you did for a living. I had not long become a service manager and such an unprecedented situation posed all sorts of challenges I hadn’t considered.
“What was amazing though, was the support from the experienced team around me which, in turn, helped me guide my team through such an uncertain time.
“The stacks of training on offer were, no doubt, a huge help throughout that whole period. There was a whole lot of learning on the job, which I’m sure a lot of people out there resonate with, but also such a breadth of support which was a huge help.
“And then beyond that period, I was able to further develop my skills in leading teams and understanding what makes people tick and hopefully get the best out of them, which is something I’ve really enjoyed.
“I’m pleased to say that I love my job as much now as I did when I started. No two days are the same and there’s so many ways to continue to push and challenge yourself at a pace that suits you.
“When people are curious about my job and considering it for themselves, I always say that they should take the time to properly research what the role entails before applying. You do need to have an empathetic and patient nature to enjoy the job but if you do have these characteristics, it’ll be the best thing you do.”
To learn more about beginning your career in adult social care, you can attend a range of events taking place for Scottish Careers Week from November 13 to 17, 2023, or read more about your new role.
Visit CareToCare.scot to find out how to become part of the team.
