Are you naturally caring, patient, responsible and hardworking? If so, adult social care could be the perfect role for you.
Working in adult social care gives you the chance to make a real difference to others every day - and is perhaps one of the most rewarding jobs you could do.
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.
Although undoubtedly it can be challenging at times, it’s an enjoyable and varied job with a strong sense of purpose, in which you help people to live the life they want to live – including you.
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.
Agnieszka Chojnacka, 43, service manager
Agnieszka moved to Scotland from Poland in 2005 and has a background in looking after elderly people, as well as young people with autism. During her caring journey, she achieved a Masters degree in Occupational Health and Special Education.
She said: “When I moved to Scotland, I knew I wanted a job in adult social care. I started off as a care assistant, primarily focused on supporting people with dementia. I was promoted to care worker, then to senior care worker, and eventually became a service manager in 2022.
"I have a background in care from my time in Poland but I wanted to get up to speed with the Scottish system and ways of working quickly. I gained my SVQ3 and SVQ4 with Crossreach thanks to my employer’s support and the amazing team around me, who have always been really supportive.
“I really love my job but, of course, there can be challenges. You know you’re responsible for someone’s well-being and happiness at points, so that brings pressure. But ultimately, this is why I find the role so rewarding.
“For anyone considering it, I’d urge them to do their research online and apply for a role that could change their life.”
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 Sparrow, 30, service manager
Since moving back from Australia a few years back, George has found a real passion for his career in care and has progressed quickly, at a pace suitable for him. He’s now encouraging others to discover a career in care and the same rewards he’s enjoyed.
“When the pandemic hit, 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 was 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 also now a member of the Board at Carr Gomm which has been another great opportunity. It’s a voluntary position but really gives me a good insight into the charity’s running and the chance to help shape strategic plans. It’s also a great way to work with people from a range of backgrounds and industries to get their perspective on things and learn from their experience. Taking little things from them has been a big help in my day-to-day role.
“I’m pleased to say that I love my job as much now as I did when I previously spoke to you. 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.
“You grow both personally and professionally thanks to colleagues around you and I’m lucky that my employers make me feel so valued and understand that I’m making a difference on a daily basis. I left school with core qualifications and now completed my SVQ4 in Care Services Leadership and Management.
“There’s a misconception of adult social care and what a role within it means. I can only speak from my personal experience and say that if you are resilient and willing to put the hard work in, then you can really reap the benefits of a career that helps you make a real difference to others on a daily basis.”
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.
