Careers in social care: the top five reasons to work in the sector
By
Stacey Selway

There’s no denying that the spotlight has been firmly shone on the social care arena over the last few months as the country battles with Covid-19. The news has been awash with uplifting stories of the amazing work professionals in social care have delivered day in and day out in very challenging conditions – something we have regularly discussed in previous blog posts. And all this has served to demonstrate not only what an amazing job social care workers do, but also how fulfilling a job in the arena can be. Despite this, however, the sector has long faced a talent shortfall, and is crying out for people to work in the field. This week’s blog explores the reasons why a career in the social care sector might just be the right choice for you.

Why choose a career in social care? Here are the top 5 reasons:

As mentioned above, while Covid-19 has certainly filled the press with stories about the fantastic work care homes are doing in the fight against the virus, it would be remiss to suggest that the arena hasn’t faced negative media coverage. Funding issues, lack of resources in homes, and long hours have all been documented in the past, and unfortunately this has put some people off considering a career in the field. However, the pros of working in social care, in our opinion – and that of the many, many candidates we have placed over the years – far outweigh any negatives.

Here we list the top five reasons why you should consider a move into social care.

1. You change people’s lives:

Rewarding, fulfilling and meaningful are words we often hear from people that work in the healthcare sector. And we couldn’t agree more. The work health care professionals do can be instrumental not only regarding the health of their patients, but also their quality of life. And this has certainly been the case during Covid-19 where care home workers, for example, have often been the only people residents have seen for months on end. The work individuals do really does change lives and is one of the many reasons job satisfaction in the field is so high.

There’s often a misconception that working in social care involves long hours that provide little flexibility. However, one of the many reasons people choose a career in the field is because of flexibility it affords. So whether you’re looking for a job that fits around childcare responsibilities, or are seeking a better work/life balance, there’s plenty of different options. After all, residents within care homes need round the clock assistance, so you can find a position that suits your own requirements.

3. Train while you work:

Not only will you learn invaluable life lessons when working in social care, but you can also gain qualifications on the job. And depending on what your aspirations are, these will help you climb the career ladder and enable you to move from one part of the sector to another with ease. And while it is not the case across the board, many employers will fund their staff to undertake these qualifications.

4. You won’t get bored:

Whatever role you choose within the sector, it’s safe to say that no two days are the same! The variety that the sector offers is unrivalled and really suits individuals that are looking for a job that changes from day to day and keeps them on their toes. We hear so many candidates talking about the mundane nature of their positions, so if you’re looking for a fast-paced environment that means you meet different people and carry out different tasks then social care may just be right for you.

5. Job for life

The employment rate has plummeted in recent months due to the impact coronavirus has had on businesses in almost every sector. Fortunately, the healthcare arena is, understandably, booming and job opportunities are plentiful. What’s more with talent shortages impacting the field, employers are working very hard to not only attract talent, but also retain staff. And all this means that working in the sector affords a great deal of job security which will comes as welcome news for many in the current climate.

Looking to take a step into the social care arena? Get in touch to start your journey

Our Health division manages recruitment for a vast range of private healthcare settings, with a specialist focus on the recruitment of nursing and unit management staff. We recruit for over 6,000 organisations, placing experts in elderly care, mental health, dementia care, brain injury nursing and rehabilitation support, pre & post-operative care and residential care. If these sound like areas you can see yourself working in, then get in touch with us today to take your first step on your healthcare journey.

Our dedicated team will go above and beyond to find you the right role based on your requirements. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s just some of the fantastic feedback they’ve received from the hundreds of healthcare workers they have placed over the last few years.

“I used Steph as a recruitment consultant, she was helpful, professional and has good industry knowledge. Steph kept in touch, gave me details of potential vacancies and advice with my CV. I would recommend Steph to potential candidates searching a new role with the care home sector”. Home Manager, Greater London

“Excellent, professional approach and patient in listening and discussing all I wanted. Considered what I needed to know, always answering my questions and inquiries about each job offered”. RGN, East Sussex

“I was very impressed with Emma, she was very professional and kept me informed every step of the way. She made sure I was happy to have my CV forwarded and was very helpful, offering to give me an assistance needed for interview”. Registered Nurse, Rochester

To speak to Steph, Emma or another member of the WR Health team take a look at our healthcare division’s page for more information.