What is Social Care? Meet some real social care workers

Jill Whitfield - Care Assistant, Residential Care

Jill: "I used to work in a factory but found it mind-numbing: every day the same. A friend was working in a residential home and suggested I apply. I moved from that first job to here 6 years ago and have never regretted coming into this type of work. It can be demanding. The residents are old people with dementia and other mental illness, so you have to be alert, but there's a good atmosphere in the home. I'm the key worker with two residents, helping them through each day. There's plenty of banter, especially in the mornings. The important thing is to ensure the residents have as much dignity as possible."

Jill and Sharon both work in the same residential home. They came into social care work with no special qualifications, learning about the job vacancies through friends or family contacts. As a Care Assistant with 9 years experience, Jill has had a range of training connected with various aspects of her work. Sharon has been trained in lifting and handling and health and safety, and will have further training if she moves into a Care Assistant role. Jill has recently started computer classes with a view to widening her work horizons. Sharon's priority is balancing work and looking after her young son.