Care support worker

People who have patience, compassion and communication skills make great care support workers. If that sounds like you, this career may be a great fit.

In this role, you'll care for people who need support with daily activities like dressing, shopping and housework. You may work with children, people with physical or learning disabilities, older people or families.

Care support workers speak to people about their needs in a sensitive way. You'll help them with tasks that'll make their lives easier and happier. You may do this in people's homes, in sheltered housing, at day centres or in places like nursing homes.

Your tasks might include:

• getting to know the individuals you care for, discovering their interests and needs

• helping with daily personal care like washing, dressing, using the toilet and eating

• completing general household tasks such as laundry, shopping and housework

• assisting people to manage their money, pay bills and write letters

• planning fun and stimulating activities for people to do

• helping people travel to and from a residential home — such as taking a young person to a local college

As well as helping the individual, you might also support other family members as they get used to new caring responsibilities.

You'll need to work closely with other health and social care professionals. Together, you'll arrange tailored care and development plans for each person.

Most care support worker positions will pay an hourly wage, but some may be salaried. 

• Scottish Social Services Council – the regulatory body for people working in Scottish social services

• Disclosure Scotland – learn more about the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme

• Skills for Care and Development – skills advice for people who work in early years, social services and children and young people's services