Care workers are in demand - so let’s expel some of the most common myths about working in social care to encourage you to find out more.

5 Common Myths about Working in Social Care

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With Social Care vacancies three times higher than in other sectors, there is great pressure to encourage people into the care profession. Yet, whilst much has changed over the years, many still hold a dim view of care work. So let’s address some of the most common myths about working in Social Care …

1. ANYONE CAN BE A CARER: 

Care workers have a huge responsibility towards those they support, and are expected to have a wide range of personal, professional and social skills, so there are high standards to be met. Further, qualifications are ALWAYS desirable, and mandatory training ensures that staff all have the same great foundation to build their care work skills on.

2. YOU HAVE NO CHOICE IN THE WORK YOU DO: 

Of course, there are tasks that are expected of the role, as with any job; however, employers have a responsibility to ensure the wellbeing of their staff and will do what they can to accommodate changes where needed. Care work involves a great variety of tasks and roles, and there are always ways of working around temporary situations where needed. Flexible employers make flexible staff!

3. TOO MUCH RESPONSIBILITY FOR TOO LITTLE PAY: 

This argument has come into focus for many frontline services as we grapple with the complexities of care in a pandemic. Whilst senior support assistants will, naturally have more pressing day-to-day decisions to make, all staff in the care profession are supported by watertight processes set in place to protect both them and the client, and will not be asked to do anything that they are not qualified to carry out. Further, whilst care work is aligned with other like services in terms of salary, there are many perks of the job which can make it the ideal role for someone looking for a rewarding, flexible career with access to learning and financial perks! 

4. IT’S A JOB TO ‘TIDE YOU OVER’: 

This is a bit of an oldie, which the field has worked very hard to change! Care work is no longer considered a ‘stop gap’ role – its long-term opportunities for career advancement, good rates of pay, and ongoing care training, make care work a worthwhile and rewarding life-long profession. It’s common for health professionals to take up care work positions – partly as it is so fulfilling, but also with a view to working into their retirement.

5. IT’S THANKLESS WORK! 

No job is without its ‘trying days’, and care staff currently find themselves under more pressure than normal due to the increase in demand (that’s where YOU come in:). However, care work is more than a job and brings many more personal benefits than financial security. More often than not, you will be seeing clients who are glad of your company, support and kindness – so whilst it may be challenging at times as a support assistant or team leader, thankless, it is not! Read some of our staff testimonials for an inside view of what draws people to the care profession.
So, good news for anyone thinking of a career change amidst the highest number of social care vacancies to date! However, if you’re still not sure, and would like to know more about the types of roles available and what they involve, get in touch. Social Care Alba prides itself on its reputation as an employer and is keen to support you from your application onwards. We’re here to help.