Care Jobs - How to start

Adult social care is a growing sector that offers many rewarding careers, with many different job roles and opportunities for progression. There are about 1.5 million jobs in adult social care in England. Due to growing demand, Skills for Care estimates that another 275,000 people will be needed to fill additional roles by 2025.

What’s the difference between social care and healthcare?

The goal of social care is to help individuals live as well as possible in their homes and communities by offering them assistance and care. This can cover a range of different settings, such as residential care homes, domiciliary care, or supported living schemes for adults with learning disabilities, for example.

The main goal of healthcare is to treat patients so they can recover and remain well. There are more than 19,000 organizations that offer social care, however, the NHS employs the majority of people in the healthcare industry. A large number of health jobs are located in GP offices or hospitals. 

Entry-level positions

The journey in adult social care often begins with roles like Care Assistant or Support Worker. These positions provide hands-on experience and a foundational understanding of care principles.

Key qualifications:

Level 2 Diploma in Care: This qualification is ideal for those just starting out, covering essential care principles and practices.

Care Certificate: With 15 key standards,it covers the basic skills and knowledge needed to provide effective care.

Intermediate roles

After gaining experience, many care workers move into more specialized roles such as Senior Care Workers or Domiciliary Care Workers. These positions often involve more responsibility, including overseeing other staff or managing specific aspects of care.

Key Qualifications:

Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care: This diploma builds on the basics, delving deeper into specific care practices and preparing individuals for supervisory roles.

Specialized Training: Depending on the area of interest, such as dementia care or disability support, additional specialized training may be beneficial.

Management and leadership roles

For those looking to step into management, roles like Care Manager or Deputy Manager become the next target. These positions involve significant responsibility, including overseeing care delivery, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Key qualifications:

Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care: This qualification prepares individuals for managerial roles, covering leadership, management, and advanced care principles.

Specialised careers

The sector also offers avenues for specialization. Roles such as Social Worker, Occupational Therapist, or Care Coordinator require specific skill sets and provide opportunities to focus on particular areas within care.

Key qualifications:

Degree-Level Qualifications: For roles like Social Worker or Occupational Therapist, a relevant undergraduate or postgraduate degree is usually required.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Ongoing learning and specialisation courses are crucial to stay updated and effective in these roles.

Policy and advisory roles

With vast experience and a deep understanding of the sector, some professionals move into policy-making or advisory roles, influencing the future direction of adult social care.

Key qualifications:

Higher Education: Often, roles in policy or advisory capacities require higher education degrees in fields like public health, social work, or health care management.

Specialised Training in Policy and Governance: Understanding adult social care’s legislative and regulatory framework is crucial for these roles.

Regardless of the career stage, continuous learning and adaptability are key in the ever-evolving landscape of adult social care. Staying informed about new developments, embracing change, and being open to new learning opportunities are essential traits for anyone in this sector.

Career progression in adult social care is as varied as it is rewarding. Whether starting as a care assistant, moving into management, specializing in a specific area, or even influencing policy, there are numerous pathways to explore. Each stage requires appropriate qualifications, a commitment to continuous learning, and a passion for making a difference in the lives of others. In adult social care, the journey of professional growth never truly ends – it evolves, offering new challenges and opportunities to those dedicated to this vital field.