What is Social Care? Meet some real social care workers

Sharon Quinn - Domestic Assistant, Residential Care

Sharon: "I came to work here part-time, with hours I could fit around my 9-year old son. This is ideal. It's more rewarding than the office work I used to do. It seems more important to be here for people who need care. I was nervous at first about how I'd respond to the residents, but you learn to relate to the person not the illness. I work occasional shifts as a care assistant with supervision, and I might like to move into that job when I've got more experience."

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.