Why social care could be your perfect job
As part of National Careers Week at Choice Care, we’re celebrating the incredible opportunities that come with choosing a career in care. Despite being one of the most rewarding and essential industries, many myths still surround the profession—which may be off-putting for people who might otherwise thrive in this field.
At Choice Care, we know first-hand from our wonderful colleagues that care work is fulfilling, offers real career progression and is open to everyone, no matter what your background is. That’s why we’re busting some of the most common misconceptions about working in care, so more people can see the potential of this truly life-changing career!
Let’s address five common myths, incorporating insights from Choice Care:
1. Myth: You must have previous experience to work in care.
Reality: Not at all! All our homes welcome first-time carers and we provide comprehensive training to get you started. We have excellent Learning and Development opportunities which combine face-to-face training, support from managers, and practical experience, all complemented by e-learning resources.
2. Myth: Care work doesn’t pay well.
Reality: While wages can vary, many care jobs offer competitive rates, above the National Living Wage. Choice Care Group provides additional benefits such as flexible hours, Blue Light Card eligibility and holiday entitlement, including your birthday off! We offer fantastic learning opportunities and a structured career progression – as well as Choiceversaries and an Employee Assistance Programme for comprehensive health and wellbeing support.
3. Myth: There’s no career progression in care.
Reality: At Choice Care – we offer a wide range of opportunities for career progression. Many Social Care Workers move into senior roles such as Team Leader, Assistant Manager or Registered Manager. You might also move into a support role – we have many colleagues who started off as carers and then moved into office-based roles – bringing their wealth of experience with them. We provide in-house training programmes for every role at Choice Care, including Foundation and Advanced Management Development Programmes and support for completing apprenticeships and qualifications, ensuring clear pathways for your career.
4. Myth: Being a carer is only about personal care.
Reality: Care work encompasses much more than just personal care. Carers provide companionship, assist with daily tasks, prepare meals and support people to live independently. Carers at Choice Care also help organise days out, support people achieving lifelong goals and even go on holidays! Colleagues thrive when helping the people we support to live ‘gloriously ordinary lives’.
5. Myth: Working in care is mostly for women.
Reality: While care has traditionally attracted more women, plenty of men are thriving in the sector. At Choice Care, a significant number of our team are men, proving that care work isn’t about gender—it’s about having the right skills and dedication. If you’re compassionate, patient, and driven to make a difference, care could be the perfect career choice for you.
