To be honest about it, care work is not for everyone. It takes determination, a certain positive outlook on life and it very often takes hard work too. That said, care jobs can lead to extremely rewarding careers that many people find will last them a lifetime. Of course, people join the care industry after they have tried a few other jobs, too, but care workers are just as likely to have been drawn to the industry because of a vocational calling and made it their first job, as well. Other than it being such a richly rewarding career, why might you consider working in care?
1. Work Within Your Local Community
For many people who work in the care sector, it is being able to work within their own community that means so much. Whether you opt for residential care work in a nursing home or provide support to people in their own homes, you will be able to deliver a service that affects the people around you. For some, this means they won’t have to commute far for their job and that’s appealing enough. For others, though, it means being able to make a contribution to the community they live in.
2. Feel Like What You’re Doing Counts
Have you ever felt you are stuck in a job where it is the same thing over and over again? Maybe you’ve had that experience of wondering why on earth you are doing the task you’ve been given? In care work, everything you do makes a direct difference to the quality of life of the person you’re helping. No two days are ever the same and feeling bored will be a thing of the past, especially if you are genuinely interested in people.
3. Enjoy a Flexible Lifestyle
Care work can be demanding, it is true. However, it is also very flexible. You can work days, nights or rolling shift patterns. You can work full-time, part-time and even apply for sabbaticals with some employers. Maybe you’ll want to take a break from care work for a few years to do something else? With the skills you’ve acquired, it is always likely you’ll be able to return to care work once more when it suits you.
4. Get Better Paid Than You Might Expect
In some quarters, care work is not sufficiently rewarded but high-quality care providers, such as Anglian Care in Essex, look after their staff. This means being able to draw a fair salary for the work you carry out. What’s more, if you show willingness, some employers will invest in training you. This way, you can develop your career and earn more as you make progress.
5. Be Valued By Your Clients and Colleagues
In the end, working in the care sector is about being respected by those around you. The people you will look after will value your time and your colleagues will, as well. This is particularly so when you find a close-knit team to work among. Being valued by others is very rewarding and goes a long way to boosting self-confidence and self-respect.
