The real reward of working in care

The real reward for working in care? It’s one of the very few careers where you make a meaningful impact every single day. It’s a job filled with pockets of joy, where you can make a difference to the lives of so many truly inspiring people.  

But, for many years, working in care has been portrayed in a negative light, sometimes in the media, sometimes by word of mouth, as one that focuses on stress, low pay and worst-case headlines. 

“Care work isn’t rewarding” has become a common misconception in the sector – shaping public opinion and creating apprehension for passionate people looking for a career that is full of purpose. 

However, if talk to anyone who actually works in care, you’ll hear a very different story: one of milestones celebrated, and lives transformed. 

We spoke to one of our Registered Managers, Sarah Eele, who shines a light on the reality that rarely makes the news: that care work is not only rewarding, but full of meaning. 

“When you hear that care work isn’t rewarding, you’ll often find that it’s coming from people who have never worked in care or have no real insight into what it’s like. 

Their views are often shaped by the media and that can be very damaging for people looking at careers in care, but also the public’s view on those who draw on support.  

When our home first opened, we went to meet the neighbours to explain who we were and the kind of support we provide, because we didn’t want them relying on stereotypes to make up their mind. Over the six years we’ve been here, we’ve built up a really easy, positive relationship and never had a single complaint.”

“I wish people could see the real side of care that almost never makes the news – the everyday positives and that the people we support are just normal human beings with wonderful minds!”  

“A lot of people think care work is just about low pay and basic tasks. But you’re never just a carer, you become so much more! 

A counsellor, a pharmacist, a cook, an advocate and more – we wear so many hats! 

There are so many opportunities for progression too. People assume we just ‘deal with behaviours,’ but most of what we do is about building relationships and helping people lead the lives they want to live. We’re always supporting people to try new things – we even have our own suggestion box for people to put new ideas for their home in, from redecorating their room right down to the small things like getting new dinner trays!  

The media tends to highlight problems instead of the positive side of care and ignoring success stories. There’s a false narrative that we take away choice and independence, when in reality we focus on empowering people and promoting independence.” 

“There are so many! I once took two people abroad for the very first time in their lives, which was so special.  

One person came to us wearing the same clothes every day and struggling with personal care and communication. Now they chat confidently and look after their hygiene daily. We’re also proud of someone we support who is registered blind and now takes pride in cooking for himself.”

“These might sound like ‘basic tasks’ but are actually huge milestones. We adapt to people, they don’t adapt to us, and we will always find a way to help someone achieve what matters to them.” 

“I’d say go for it!! You will receive full support if you were to work at Choice Care. You get all the guidance you need through induction, training, and buddies or mentors. 

I’d celebrate and shout about the many success stories and always encourage people to focus on the real people – not the stereotypes. You will go home feeling genuinely proud and excited to talk about your day! 

Care work is actually a brilliant career leaving people feeling inspired and extremely positive – the complete opposite to the negative bias that plays out in the media.”

Care work isn’t defined by the challenges; it’s defined by the impact. 

The idea that care work lacks reward is erased the moment you look beyond the stereotypes. True reward is found in every single day – through the progress someone makes, in the confidence they gain, or the laughs shared over dinner. These moments don’t happen without the support of dedicated care professionals who show up every day with compassion.