Care Assistant Vacancies in England and Wales
Introduction
Care assistants hold an essential role in supporting qualified professionals in hospitals, care homes, GP surgeries and other health-care environments.
Depending on the specific vacancy and environment, a care assistant may aid therapists or specialists by setting up equipment and providing hands-on support or by working directly with patients in carrying out routine personal care duties.
It may be necessary to work shifts, which may include nights and weekends. Part-time and full-time opportunities are available.
It is imperative that Care Assistants pass a police check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Clients in the health-care sector often also request the following training of employees:
- Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA)
- Manual Handling
- Medication Awareness
- Basic First Aid
If employed within the health-care sector, it is possible to work towards a NVQ in health or health and social care. Those who have passed Level 3 can begin formal training in nursing.
Job Overview
The role of a Care Assistant is to provide support and assistance to individuals with extra care needs. This can include a wide variety of patients from people with physical disabilities to children with learning disabilities to elder people.
The support provided may be health related and may also include other additional day-to-day assistance. The role may require the Care Assistant to aid individuals with daily personal care: washing, feeding, mobility, and other responsibilities.
Care Assistants traditionally work within residential nursing homes and supported communities. They may also work with children with both physical and / or learning disabilities.
A Care Assistant is responsible for:
- Relationship building with patients and other surrounding stakeholders
- Recognising individual needs of patients
- Assisting with planned activities of patients
- Aiding with tasks that may require extra physical help
- Planning routines which help patients achieve day-to-day activities
- Demonstrating empathy for patients
- Acting as a key link for patients and their stakeholders
- Working on a shift basis to suit patients’ needs
Skills
- Being Friendly and supportive
- Being flexible and able to cope with stressful situations
- Work as part of a team with family and co-workers
- Understanding the principles of Health Care and Hygiene