Tips for the new Care Worker
At Social Care Alba (SCA), we know it can be daunting in a new job, which is why we like to make sure you have all the support you need to help you become a competent member of our team.
All of our new staff undergo a strict induction process which includes going through our policies and procedures, from infection control and medication management to complex behaviour, as well as Moving and Handling, and other practical elements of the care-at-home role. As care workers, it’s critical to understand the responsibilities we have towards those we support, and each session will give you the knowledge and skills needed to perform the regular every day tasks that you’ll be expected to undertake.
We want you to get to know your colleagues
Our team is super friendly, and have all been where you are, so relax and get to know your colleagues as well as you can. We hold regular get-togethers, like lunches and occasional nights out to help everyone gel as a team, but you’ll also be spending much of your day with your colleagues on the job. Getting to know your team is incredibly important, as communication is key in our line of work, and we need to be able to share concerns and seek guidance quickly as situations arise. We say to everyone who starts with us, don’t be shy! Get to know who you’ll be working with and help to strengthen our great team!
We know nobody’s perfect!
If you are new to care, it will seem as though there are just too many things to remember – multiplied by every service user you come into contact with! However, many of these things will become second nature, as typically repetitive elements of keeping our service users safe and healthy. We know you’ll get there … and we do our best to give you a great start.
For the first while, you will have a work buddy to shadow and learn the ropes from as you learn about your clients and their individual needs. Feel free to ask your work buddy questions, and don’t be afraid to query things you feel might be obvious; you won’t be the first to ask, and you certainly won’t be the last!
We are carers – we care
The clue is in the job title! Be aware that this job is psychological as well as physical. We are not just administering medication or delivering personal care. In this profession, we work with people of all ages, and all walks of life and we need to be open and non-judgemental in our approach, as well as offering compassion and kindness. People who gravitate towards caring professions generally have these qualities; our aim at SCA is to provide a strong foundation to help caring people be at their best!
Practical tips for your first days in your new role
A few tips for your first days with SCA …
Wear sensible footwear – quite apart from the fact that you will be on your feet for much of the day, sound footing is also crucial when supporting others who may not be so steady on their feet. Further, you need only once have a wheelchair go over your toes to know that sturdy shoes are a must!
Pre-plan your meals – Shift work can be difficult to get into and work around, so its best to pre-plan your meals until you get the hang of it. This includes bringing in lunches and snacks that will keep you going throughout the day, and having meals ready for when you get home. The first few weeks may leave you with little energy to conjure up a healthy meal when you get home!
Try to avoid wearing jewellery as it can catch easily during personal care, or be lost in any number of homes you visit – so try to minimise what jewellery you wear for your own safety.
Bring a notebook – make notes of whatever you can, and don’t feel awkward about asking for a second to scribble something down. Reading through your notes in the evening can also help to drive new information home …
And lastly – be yourself! It takes all sorts to make a tight team, and we appreciate and value every single staff member for the challenging but rewarding role they do. If you haven’t applied yet, head over to our careers page for information on current vacancies …and we hope to see you soon!
