Specialist

FAQS

What direct care and support roles are there?

Like social care, direct care and support roles are an umbrella term that encompasses many different professions. They can include roles such as an activity worker, who would be involved in organising social activities for individuals including trips out and entertainment and supporting them to take part in these, to improve their quality of life. You can also be a care worker, whose role would be supporting with social and physical activities like personal care and mobility. Personal assistants also come under this, and they would provide support to live as independently as possible, usually within their own home.

Rehabilitation workers are there to help those living independently after illness/accident to ensure they have access to housing, financial and social support. Share lives carers will open up their own home/family life to include a vulnerable individual, for example they could come to live with the carer or visit them at points throughout the week. Finally, there is the role of an advocacy worker, who ensure the vulnerable individuals have their voices heard and make sure decisions being made for them are done with their best interests at heart.

What’s it really like?

Working in direct care and support roles can be an extremely rewarding job, as you build up relationships with the individuals you’re looking after and can tailor their care and help support them more as you get to know them. You will be responsible for their practical and emotional support, helping to ensure they are living the most independent life as possible with their needs.

The job would involve being out in the community working alongside other care workers to provide the best all round care package possible. Most of these roles are within the NHS, however there are many private agencies which clients can pay for and care workers are employed by.

What do I need to work within direct care and support roles?

For many of these roles, there may be different entry requirements to pursue particular roles. Some may have no set entry requirements, but may include certain things that employers may ask for. This can include some experience, or qualifications relating to health and social care. There will be an expectation that you have a good standard of numeracy and literacy. When looking at vacancies, it’s important to check if there are any particular requirements that you may have to fulfil.

Typically, the interest in these vacancies is high, and so it’s important to do what you can to stand out. Employers will often value evidence of relevant work experience, either paid or voluntary, or even experience of working with children or families. Additionally, getting in touch with the employer and enquiring about the necessary skills or experience can often create a good impression that could lead to a successful application.

Can I get financial support?

Degree apprenticeships involve you being employed - this means that you will be fully paid. If it’s necessary for your ability to continue training, The Care Workers Charity offers a crisis grant, which is a one-off payment to those employed in UK social care sector for any workers who have experiences a qualifying circumstance that has caused significant impact.

What do I need to know?

From April 2022, all applicants must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before the start of the course, or provide valid proof of medical exemption. Health and social care professionals are subject to the UK government’s vaccine mandate, meaning that all people working in health and social care settings are required to be vaccinated.

Assist patients as part of the midwifery team

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FAQS