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HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE CAREER PATHWAYS

Welcome to Career Pathways! This section is here to help you find the best starting point in your career. It will guide you to know what roles are the best suitable for you at the most current stage in your own career journey.

No Qualifications: Functional Skills
No Experience in Health and Social Care: Level 2
Some Experience in Health and Social Care: Level 3, Level 4, and Level 5
Qualifications Needed: Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, Level 6, Level 7






FUNCTIONAL
SKILLS
LEVEL 2
ROLES




LEVEL 3
ROLES
LEVEL 4 ROLES




LEVEL 5
ROLES
LEVEL 6 ROLES
LEVEL 7

FUNCTIONAL SKILLS

Functional Skills are qualifications designed to help develop confidence and fluency in Maths, English, and ICT. These are the skills that people need for both their working and personal life. There are no specific entry level qualifications required for you to start your functional skills course. They are there for you to get the most out of education, work and everyday life and to help you function more confidently, effectively and independently.

The nature of your own route will depend on the advice you receive from your education provider to ensure an optimal educational experience. Contact your local FE College for details.

COLLEGES IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE




Barnsley College-
Address: Church St, Barnsley S70 2AX Phone: 01226 216216 Website: https://www.barnsley.ac.uk/campuses/old-mill-lane-campus/

Dearne Valley College- Address: Manvers Park, Wath upon Dearne, Swinton, Rotherham S63 7EW Phone: 01709 513355 Website: https://www.dearne-coll.ac.uk/

Doncaster College- Address: The Hub, Chappell Dr, Doncaster DN1 2RF Phone: 01302 553553 Website: https://www.don.ac.uk/

Rotherham College- Address: Town Centre Campus, Eastwood Lane, Rotherham S65 1EG Phone: 01709 362111 Website: https://www.rotherham.ac.uk/

The Sheffield College- Address: City Campus, Granville Rd, Sheffield S2 2RL Phone: 0114 260 2600 Website: http://www.sheffcol.ac.uk/


North Notts College- Address: Carlton Rd, Worksop S81 7HP, Phone: 01909 504504 Website: https://www.nnc.ac.uk/
Level 2 roles tend to be entry level roles. There are no set entry qualifications and no formal experience is required. Although you may benefit from holding a qualification in a related topic (e.g. GCSE, BTEC, or other vocational qualification), and related voluntary or informal experience will help support your application. Take a look at the different Level 2 roles here:

CARE

WORKER

Job description

You’ll work with people who need direct care and support, and you’ll be responsible for an individual’s overall comfort and independence. You could work in a residential or nursing home, in peoples’ own homes, or out in the community. You could also be a live-in carer, living with an individual over a specified time period.

Duties can include

■ Supporting people who need care and support with all aspects of their day to day living, so they can enjoy the best possible quality of life.
■ Creating and maintaining good relationships with people who need care and support and their family and friends - as well as other professionals.
■ Supporting people with social and physical activities or mental stimulation.  
■ Helping with personal care such as support with showering and dressing.
■ Supporting people with eating and drinking.
■ Monitoring individuals’ conditions by taking their temperature, pulse, respiration and weight, and possibly helping with medication

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills.
There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to treat people with dignity
■ good listening and observational skills
■ the ability to follow company policies and procedures (i.e. health and safety).

Entry requirements

There are no set entry qualifications, although you may benefit from holding a qualification in a related topic (e.g. GCSE, BTEC, or other vocational qualification). It is possible to enter through a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Health & Social Care. Although no formal experience is required, related voluntary or informal experience (such as caring for relatives) will support your application. You’ll be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring check.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL WORK TOWARDS

You'll work towards your level one/Care Certificate at your local FE college or with your employer.
The Care Certificate Standards:
•Understand your role
•Your personal development
•Duty of care
•Equality and diversity
•Work in a person centred way  
•Communication
•Privacy and dignity
•Fluids and nutrition
•Awareness of mental health, dementia and learning disabilities
•Safeguarding adults
•Safeguarding children
•Basic life support
•Health and safety
•Handling information
•Infection Prevention and Control
Background
The Care Certificate is an agreed set of standards that sets out the knowledge, skills and behaviours expected of specific job roles in the health and social care sectors. It's made up of the 15 minimum standards that should be covered if you are 'new to care' and should form part of a robust induction programme. The Care Certificate was developed jointly by Skills for Care,  Health Education England and  Skills for Health.
Click on link for more details: https://www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Learning-development/inducting-staff/care-certificate/Care-Certificate.aspx12:00 2/5/19undefined

You'll work towards a Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care (role specific training) or Apprenticeship in Adult Care Worker or Health and Social Care (roles specific training). Once qualified you'll have the option to progress to a level 3 role.

PERSONAL

ASSISTANT

Job description

You’ll work directly with one or more individuals to support them in every aspect of their daily living and enable them to live as independently as possible. You’ll be employed directly by an individual (known as an individual or direct employer) who are managing and paying for their own care through a direct payment or individual budget. You’ll often work from their own home. You can be employed directly by one employer or work for a number of different people.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Supporting people who need care and support to enjoy the best possible quality of life – this could include cooking, shopping, social and leisure activities, support at work or college and assisting with pets.
■ Creating and maintaining good relationships with the person/people you support and their family and friends, as well as other professionals.  
■ Helping people with personal care such as showering and dressing (although not all PA roles involve personal care).
■ Supporting people with eating and drinking.
■ Supporting healthcare tasks such as medication and catheter management.  
■ Managing and co-ordinating a team of PAs (if in a senior PA role)

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills
There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to treat people with dignity
■ good interpersonal skills
■ working on your own initiative  
■ digital and computer skills
■ flexibility and time management.

Entry requirements

There are no set entry qualifications, and the skills, experience and values required will largely depend on the needs of the individual employer. Individual employers are seeking a personal assistant who they can trust and who has the right values and attitudes.

SHARED LIVES

CARER

Job description

Shared lives carers’ welcome vulnerable people into their own home and you’ll provide any support they need whilst encouraging them to be independent. You could share your home on a long or short term basis, offer weekend respite or provide support (such as social activities) to individuals during the day using your own home as a resource.  Another option is staying with the individual in their own home (this is known as ‘homeshare’).

Duties can include

■ Providing a safe, welcoming, comfortable home that can offer a stable and supportive environment.  
■ Providing care and support in addition to board and lodgings, or to make your home available as a resource.  
■ Supporting people to meet their emotional, social, health and educational needs.
■ Supporting people to develop friendships and relationships, gain confidence and develop skills to become as independent as possible.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills
There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to treat people with dignity
■ good listening and observational skills
■ the ability to provide someone with opportunities to learn  
■ being responsive and supportive
■ patience and understanding.

Entry requirements

Previous experience of supporting people is desirable but not essential as training and support will be given. You do not need any formal qualifications to be a shared lives carer as the personal qualities and values that you have to offer are most important.
SUPPORT




WORKER

Job description

There are a range of roles with different job titles which are all about supporting people to live independently (often following illness) many of which don’t involve personal care. You’ll usually have a number of individuals that you get to know very well. You may work in a residential home, or out in the local community. You could be working with people with substance misuse issues, a learning disability or a mental health condition. You could move into a senior support worker role and take on additional responsibilities which may include supporting and mentoring other members of staff as well as being responsible for the day to day supervision of the service.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Supporting individuals with different aspects of everyday living; including housing and finance as well as social activities.
■ Supporting people with life skills such as budgeting and cooking.
■ Working with the person and their family to design their own care plan.  
■ Providing emotional support.
■ Supporting individuals to improve and maintain their well-being.  
■ Working in teams with other professionals such as social workers.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills
There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to treat people with dignity
■ good interpersonal skills
■ good listening and observational skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


For some roles there are no formal entry level qualifications, but you will need to have strong English and number skills (such as GCSE grades A–C in maths and English). For other roles you will need at least one year’s experience of working with individuals with care and support needs and you are usually expected to have a Level 2 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care. Holding or working towards a Level 3 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care is desirable for some roles.

PHARMACY ASSISTANT

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Pharmacy Services Assistant (PSA) works under the supervision of a Pharmacist, Pharmacy Technician, or other accountable healthcare professional. The PSA provides a variety of pharmacy and medicines services to patients, the public and other professional healthcare teams. The PSA supports the delivery of pharmacy services in a variety of pharmacy environments.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

A PSA will be involved in supporting the supply, preparation and assembly of medicines and products; issuing them to patients and other healthcare professionals and assisting in providing advice to patients to help them to make effective use of their medicines. They will be responsible for ordering and receiving medicines, as well as their storage, disposal and return. They will have an understanding of healthy lifestyle choices and relevant screening services.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED

■ Act appropriately in situations to prevent harm to yourself and others
■ Be trustworthy and honest, respectful and caring
■ Act with integrity and fair conduct, have the courage to say when something is wrong
■ Be a reliable and capable member of the workforce and recognise your own value and that of your team
■ Display effective interpersonal skills
■ Respect patients' values.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

EMERGENCY CALL HANDLER

JOB DESCRIPTION

An Emergency Call Handler responds to requests for specialist professional assistance from members of the public, colleagues, and employees from other organisations (all of these individuals are called “service users”). The requests from service users could be received through a variety of communication methods, including the telephone (for example, 999 emergency or 111 urgent care calls), online applications, text messages and through social media.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

Some service users will be directly or indirectly involved in difficult and/or traumatic situations (for example, they may be in danger or unwell), and may display a variety of characteristics (for example,vulnerability, anxiety, confrontational). The role of the Contact Handler is to communicate with the service users to ascertain their needs, provide reassurance and advice, and decide and take the appropriate course of action (following processes and procedures).

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

■ Have excellent communication skills
■ Be computer literate
■ Flexible to work unsociable hours
■ Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure
■ Have excellent problem solving and decision-making skills

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Individual employers will determine their own entry requirements. But some experience working within a communications environment is likely to be needed.
You may not need any formal qualifications to work in a Level 3 role. Although, most employers will still require you to have some previous experiences in similar roles and knowledge relating to the job.Experiences outside of work, such as caring for a family member, may also support your application.

Activity worker or co-ordinator

JOB DESCRIPTION

You’ll design and oversee social activities for people who need care and support, or assist them to develop their own. You’ll also be responsible for creating individual activity plans for people. Although the role is predominantly based in residential settings, you could also work in an individual’s home or out in the wider community. You could move into a more senior activity role and take on additional responsibilities such as mentoring and supporting other staff

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Talking with people about the types of activities they’d like to do.
■ Developing and providing activities that are tailored to the needs and abilities of individuals, as well as group activities that will bring individuals together.
■ Finding the balance between arranging activities that individuals like doing and activities that will expose them to new experiences.
■ Booking external suppliers to provide entertainment and activities.
■ Organising trips out in the local community, considering transport arrangements and accessibility.  
■ Assisting people to take part in activities, ensuring that all necessary materials are available

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to motivate others  
■ good organisational skills
■ time management and the ability to schedule and plan ahead  
■ digital skills to research and book activities online.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You’ll usually have experience of working in a residential, community or voluntary setting and experience of organising activities. Qualifications demonstrating strong English and number skills (such as GCSE grades A–C in maths and English) are usually required.  A Level 3 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care is also a desirable qualification for this role, as well as awards and certificate in activity provision.

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ADVOCACY WORKER

JOB DESCRIPTION

Advocacy seeks to ensure that people, particularly those who are most vulnerable, have their voice heard on issues that are important to them, and have their views and wishes genuinely considered when decisions are being made about their lives. In this role you will empower individuals to express their views, wishes and choices and remain as involved as possible in all decisions which affect them. For example, you might provide advocacy for someone with dementia. As part of your role you might support them to make decisions about getting carers in their own home or moving into residential care.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Determining the nature of the issue(s) that the individual is experiencing.  
■ Exploring options to help people make decisions about their own lives.  
■ Assisting people to secure their rights to the help they need.  
■ Supporting an individual to develop a plan that will help them  
■ Enabling individuals to represent themselves, where possible, or speaking up on their behalf.
■ Providing practical support to help individuals, such as accompanying them to appointments.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills.  There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to understand complex policies and legislation
■ good listening and observational skills
■ assessment skills
■ research skills, including the ability to do online research.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

There are no formal qualification requirements for this role although you will benefit from having relevant life experience, as well as knowledge of local government and other public services. A degree in social sciences or a legal background is useful and some employers may require a social care qualification. You may have experience in counselling or gained experience in advocacy or welfare rights.

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ACADEMIC ROUTE

Complementary therapy support worker

JOB DESCRIPTION

In this role you’ll provide complementary therapies such as reflexology, massage and aromatherapy to individuals who may be experiencing emotional distress, pain or psychological issues. You could work in a hospital, health centre, hospice or in someone’s own home.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Building trusting and respectful relationships with people with care and support needs.
■ Carrying out assessments to identify the treatments that individuals would most benefit from.
■ Delivering complementary therapies such as massage, hypnotherapy and Reiki.
■ Evaluating the therapies carried out and amending treatment plans where needed.
■ Working with other social care and health professionals to ensure people get the care and support they need.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ excellent listening skills
■ the ability to put people at ease
■ the ability to cope with emotional situations.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Each therapy will have its own entry requirements and employers may expect therapists to be registered with either the General Regulatory Council for Complementary Therapies or the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). You may also need some previous experience of working in social care or health.

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Enhanced care worker/ enhanced personal assistant

JOB DESCRIPTION

You’ll be working in a care worker role but given additional clinical training to enable you to undertake basic healthcare tasks, working alongside registered nurses. You may want to consider this position if you’re interested in a medical career

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Supporting people who need care and support with all aspects of their day to day living, so they can enjoy the best possible quality of life.
■ Carrying out healthcare tasks such as taking blood samples, administering medication and simple wound care.  
■ Creating and maintaining good relationships with people who need care & support and their family and friends as well as other professionals.
■ Helping people with personal care such as showering and dressing.
■ Supporting people with eating and drinking.
■ Supporting people with social and physical activities or mental stimulation.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ good listening and observational skills
■ the ability to follow company policies and procedures (i.e. health and safety)
■ the ability to work with other professionals  
■ good number skills.

Entry requirements

There are no set entry qualifications, although you may benefit from holding a qualification, such as a BTEC or GCSE, in a related topic. It’s possible to get into this role through a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care. Although no formal experience is required, related voluntary or informal experience (such as caring for relatives) will support your application. You’ll need to have strong literacy and numeracy skills and will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring check.

ROUTE TO ROLE

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HOUSING SUPPORT OFFICER

Job description

You’ll provide housing related support and advice to individuals to enable them to live independently and maintain their tenancy. You may be working in sheltered accommodation, supported living services, a hostel for the homeless or supported housing. You could be working as a residential warden, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all residents and acting as the first point of contact for care staff and contractors

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Supporting individuals with many aspects of everyday living including personal finance, cooking and shopping.
■ Carrying out health and safety assessments.  
■ Supporting individuals to access wider support networks in the community.  
■ Helping individuals to identify what care and support they need.  
■ Doing administrative tasks to support your workplace, such as tenancy agreements or marketing.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ good interpersonal skills
■ the ability to work on your own initiative
■ digital skills to research networks in the local community
■ the ability to understand housing legislation.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

For some roles there are no formal entry level qualifications, but you will need to have strong English and number skills (such as GCSE grades A – C in maths and English). For other roles you will need at least one year’s experience of working with individuals with care and support needs. Having a degree or working towards a Level 3 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care is often required or desirable.

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Rehabilitation worker

JOB DESCRIPTION

The role of these workers is to support individuals to live as independently as possible, often following an illness or accident. You’ll support individuals with many aspects of everyday living, including physical, emotional and social care. This work is predominantly support and enabling, rather than personal care.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Carrying out specialist assessments within the community to identify what care and support people need.
■ Identifying what care options are available for individuals, dependent on what they need.
■ Working with other professionals such as social workers and housing departments to ensure consistent and co-ordinated support.  
■ Supporting people to gain confidence and realise their potential.  
■ Teaching people daily life skills such as making a cup of tea, or reading braille.  
■ Organising activities such as sports, drama and educational activities.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ good listening and observational skills
■ flexibility and time management
■ the ability to organise own workload
■ digital skills to do online research
■ good writing skills to complete assessments.

Entry requirements

For some roles there are no formal entry level qualifications, but entrants need to have strong English and number skills (such as GCSE grades A–C in maths and English). For other roles it’s necessary to have at least one year’s experience of working with individuals with care and support needs. Holding or working towards a Level 3 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care is desirable.

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Reablement worker/enabler

JOB DESCRIPTION

Reablement is usually provided to people who have just been discharged from hospital or are entering the care system following an illness or accident. Reablement workers will help people with daily living activities, and sometimes provide personal care - usually for up to six weeks - to encourage individuals to develop the confidence and skills to carry out these activities themselves and continue to live at home.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Working with individuals to promote their own independence and choice.
■ Developing an individual’s care plan that outlines the support they need.
■ Working closely with other professionals to ensure the individual gets the care they need, such as occupational therapists and social workers.  
■ Supporting people with equipment and assistive technology to help them live independently.  
■ Providing learning and guidance to individuals (and their carers) to help them do daily living activities themselves.  
■ Providing support with health related tasks such as administering medication.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills.  There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to treat people with dignity
■ flexibility and time management
■ patience  
■ good problem solving skills
■ digital skills to help people with assistive technology.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

For some roles there are no formal entry level qualifications, but entrants need to have strong English and number skills (such as GCSE grades A–C in Maths and English). For other roles it’s necessary to have at least one year’s experience of working with individuals with care and support needs. Holding or working towards a Level 3 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care is desirable.

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SENIOR CARE
WORKER

JOB DESCRIPTION

You’ll do the same job as a care worker, but often with the additional duties of supervising and supporting a team of care workers. Some senior care workers take on responsibilities for particular areas of work within the service such as end of life care, moving and handling, dementia care or health and safety.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Supporting people who need care and support with all aspects of their day to day living, so they can enjoy the best possible quality of life.
■ Creating and maintaining good relationships with people who need care & support and their family and friends, as well as other professionals.  
■ Developing an individual’s care plan that outlines the support they need.  
■ Helping people with personal care such as showering and dressing.
■ Supporting people with eating and drinking.
■ Supporting people with social and physical activities or mental stimulation.  
■ Carrying out healthcare tasks such as administering medication and taking temperatures.  
■ Supervising and supporting a team of care workers, including managing rotas and doing supervisions and appraisals.  
■ Deliver training sessions on specialist topics such as end of life care or moving and handling.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills.

There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to treat people with dignity
■ supervisory or team leading skills
■ good presentation skills  
■ the ability to deal with conflict
■ the ability to follow company policies and procedures (i.e. health and safety).

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You’ll be required to have a background in social care and it may be desirable to have a Level 2 or 3 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care. It’s a requirement that you are qualified to an appropriate level, and this is usually Level 3. Some senior care workers may have nursing qualifications.

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SOCIAL PRESCRIBER

JOB DESCRIPTION

Social prescribing is a way of connecting people with non-medical support in the community to help them improve their wellbeing, tackle social isolation and prevent illness. People will be referred to you from GPs, social workers and other professionals, and you may be based in a GP surgery, health centre or community organisation.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Carrying out assessments of what care and support people need, such as physical activities, learning new skills, making new friends, finding employment and housing support.  
■ Identifying local care and support services, such as community groups, and helping people to communicate with them.  
■ Monitoring and reviewing the progress people make.  
■ Building positive and effective relationships with referral partners, such as community and voluntary groups.  
■ Acting as an advocate and champion for the social prescribing service across local stakeholders, the public, and professionals.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ excellent listening skills
■ digital skills to research local groups online
■ the ability to gain people’s trust and put them at ease
■ good assessment skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

There are no formal qualification requirements for this role although most employers will require you to have previous experience of working with adults with a care and support need. Knowledge and experience of issues relating to employment, debt, social isolation, mental health, housing, physical activity and diet are also desirable.

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Social work and occupational
therapy support workers

JOB DESCRIPTION

Social workers and occupational therapists often have support workers to help them.  These roles can have a range of job titles such as social care assistant, community care officer, case officer or support worker.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Assessing what care an individual needs, including their abilities and goals.
■ Writing a care plan that outlines what care an individual needs.  
■ Monitoring and evaluating care plans.
■ Visiting people in their home and building positive relationships with them.  
■ Working alongside health and community colleagues to support people to remain in their own homes and get the care they need.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to form good working relationships  
■ the ability to work calmly under pressure  
■ good planning and organisational skills
■ problem solving skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

There are no formal qualification requirements for these roles although many employers will ask for a minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent qualification) at grades A – C.  Previous experience of working in a social care or health setting and a good level of English and maths are desirable.

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You'll need previous experience in a Health and Social Care role to work in a Level 4 job. Level 4 roles will ,also, require you to have some qualifications relevant to the job you're applying for; this could be through a level 3 or level 4 qualification, a degree, or an industry recognised qualification. To look what qualifications you need for each role, click on the job titles below.

Care coordinator / care navigator / community navigator

JOB DESCRIPTION

There’s no universal definition for care co-ordinators or navigators, but it’s likely that you’ll take an active role in helping people to remain in their own homes and get the support they need. You may be responsible for coordinating a person’s care across all areas of health and social care as well as housing and employment support, and provide an individualised support, information and signposting service.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Working with people with a range of needs, dealing with issues such as social isolation and preventing unnecessary admission to hospital or a care home.
■ Visiting people on behalf of a GP or other professional to assess their needs.  
■ Co-ordinating care from across different services, including communicating with other professionals and community groups.  
■ Assisting individuals to access support and benefits where appropriate.
■ Arranging equipment or assistive technology such as pendant alarms, calendar clocks, hand rails and keysafes.  
■ Developing and maintaining knowledge of and links with local services, networks and community groups.
■ Reflecting on and evaluating experiences of individuals using locally available support.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ planning and organisational skills
■ good team working skills  
■ digital skills, especially using a computer and assistive technology.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Qualification requirements for these roles vary with some expecting professional qualifications, degrees or a minimum of a level 4 qualification. You’ll benefit from having some experience of working in a social care, health or advice setting as well as an up-to-date knowledge of policy and practice in social care and health. You’ll need to have strong English and number skills.

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COUNSELLOR

JOB DESCRIPTION

As a counsellor you may work with people who are coming to terms with bereavement, living with a long-term condition or experiencing problems with drug or alcohol addiction. In this role you’ll to help people to overcome their challenges and to make appropriate changes to their life.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Building relationships of trust and respect.
■ Giving people the opportunity to work through their feelings in complete confidence, actively listening, and asking questions to enable them to reflect on their experiences.
■ Encouraging and empowering individuals to cope with challenges and make positive changes to their lives.
■ Referring people to other sources of help.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ excellent listening and observational skills
■ strong communication skills  
■ the ability to develop relationships of trust and respect
■ resilience and the ability to manage sensitive situations  
■ understanding of client confidentiality.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

To become a counsellor you need to fulfil the requirements of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Further information can be found at: www.bacp.co.uk/crs/Training/careersincounselling.php. A degree in a related subject such as nursing, psychology or social work may support you in your career, as will previous counselling experience.

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TEAM LEADER/ SUPERVISOR

JOB DESCRIPTION

You’ll lead and supervise a team of care workers, ensuring they provide high quality care and support. You’ll also work with your manager to ensure that standards and processes are followed and maintained.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Managing and supporting workers so they can perform their roles safely and to the best of their ability.  
■ Supporting your manager to run your workplace according to standards and legislation.  
■ Acting as a positive role model to colleagues.
■ Developing care plans that outline what care and support individuals need.  
■ Leading team meetings and doing inductions, supervisions and appraisals.  
■ Working in partnership with other professionals to ensure individuals get the support they need.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ good listening and observational skills
■ the ability to manage a team  
■ reading skills to understand company policies and procedures
■ presentation skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMEMNTS

You’ll be required to have a background in social care and probably have a Level 3 Diploma or Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care. It’s a requirement that you’re qualified to an appropriate level, and this is usually Level 3.

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You need to have certain qualifications to work in most level 5 jobs. Each role will have specific qualifications that you'll need, so look closely at the entry requirements section on each of the roles below. Each job will ,also,require you to have some experience working in a health or social care role.

COMMISSIONER

JOB DESCRIPTION

As a commissioner you’ll arrange services for people to meet care and support needs. You could commission NHS-funded services such as therapy, or work with particular client groups such as older people or people with a mental health condition. You could work for a local authority, a Clinical Commissioning Group or another NHS service. There a range of roles within commissioning teams – including quality assurance and compliance.

Duties can include

■ Sourcing services that achieve the best possible outcomes for the local community.  
■ Gathering and researching information on best practice, national policy and legislation and local market intelligence.
■ Contributing to market shaping and facilitation to increase choice and control.  
■ Planning, co-ordinating and undertaking quality inspection visits.
■ Undertaking contract reviews and monitoring spend.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ excellent listening and observational skills
■ project management  
■ the ability to manage own learning.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements will depend on the role. For commissioning assistant/ support roles a level 3 qualification would be expected. Higher level roles such as commissioning officers or managers usually require a level 5 qualification. Most roles will require relevant experience in a health or social care settings. For senior positions you’ll be required to have previous experience in a similar role.

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Management roles

JOB DESCRIPTION

There are a range of management roles available in social care – these include supervisory, first line manager(service manager/co-ordinator, residential unit manager)and middle manager (assistant director, project manager,department head) positions. You could progress to a senior management position such as chief executive or service director.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Running the service in a way that that supports the rights of individuals to live the lives they choose
■ Developing and maintaining a positive work place culture.
■ Ensuring the service meets all legal and regulatory requirements.
■ Leading, managing, mentoring and supporting staff so they can perform their roles safely and to the best of their ability
■ Managing budgets and contracts.
■ Working in partnership with other health and social care professionals.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number,digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care atwww.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ leadership skills
■ project management
■ the ability to manage own learning

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You’ll be required to have a background in social care management and to have achieved a qualification at level 4 or above in care, nursing, social work or management.If you don’t already hold a relevant qualification you will need to undertake the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care once you start in post.

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NURSING ASSOCIATE

JOB DESCIPTION

Nursing associates work with registered nurses to help them provide care and support. When you start you’ll do a two year training programme to develop the skills and knowledge you need. Many people who work in this role will eventually progress to become a fully qualified nurse.

Duties can include

■ Carrying out a range of clinical tasks.  
■ Doing physiological assessments and observations to detect early signs and deterioration.
■ Supporting registered nurses to assess, plan and evaluate individual care plans.  
■ Working in partnership with wider healthcare teams and other professionals.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ excellent listening and observational skills
■ assessment skills
■ good number skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You must undertake a two year development programme to become a nursing associate. To be accepted on to the programme you must be already working in a health or social care role, have good English and number skills at level 2, be able to demonstrate the ability to study at level 5 and also demonstrate the appropriate values and attitudes to work in health and social care.

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OWNER

JOB DESCRIPTION

You will own a service such as a residential home or domiciliary care service. You may want to have significant input into the day-to-day running of the service or prefer to appoint a manager to lead on all aspects of operational practice.

Duties can include

■ Completing the CQC registration process and ensuring the service meets all legislative and regulatory requirements.
■ Having overall responsibility for staff leadership, management, administration and resourcing.
■ Marketing your service to potential clients.
■ Leading on the growth and development of the service.
■ Managing finances and budgeting.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ Leadership skills  
■ financial management
■ project management.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

There are no specific entry requirements although it is likely you will have experience of working in the health and social care sector.

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Registered manager

JOB DESCRIPTION

As a Registered manager you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of a care service – this could be a residential home, a domiciliary care agency or a supported living service.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Running the service in a way that that supports the rights of individuals to live the lives they choose  
■ Developing and maintaining a positive workplace culture.
■ Ensuring the service meets all legal and regulatory requirements.
■ Leading, managing, mentoring and supporting staff so they can perform their roles safely and to the best of their ability  
■ Managing budgets and contracts.  
■ Working in partnership with other health and social care professionals.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ leadership skills
■ project management  
■ the ability to manage own learning
■ advanced number skills.

Entry requirements

You’ll be required to have a background in social care management and to have achieved a qualification at level 4 or above in care, nursing, social work or management. If you don’t already hold a relevant qualification you will need to undertake the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care once you start in post.

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SHARED LIVES COORDINATOR

JOB DESCRIPTION

Shared lives schemes are designed to support adults with care and support needs who find it difficult to live on their own. The schemes match people with an approved shared lives carer, who shares their family and community life and provides care and support. As a scheme coordinator you will assess, review and monitor shared lives carers, as well as matching people who need care and support to carers.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Matching carers with people who need care and support.  
■ Promoting the service and its benefits to potential clients.
■ Recruiting and providing ongoing support to carers so they can provide high quality care.
■ Assessing and screening potential shared lives carers and volunteers.  
■ Supporting and monitoring individual placements.
■ Ensuring that the scheme meets all legislative requirements.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ the ability to motivate others
■ strong planning and organisational skills
■ good assessment skills
■ supervisory skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

There are no formal qualification requirements for this role although you will benefit from having previous experience in an administration or health and social care role.

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EXPERIENCE ROUTE

You need to have certain qualifications to work in a level 6 job, most likely a degree qualification. Each role will have specific qualifications that you'll need, so look closely at the entry requirements section on each of the roles below. Each job will ,also,require you to have some experience working in a health or social care role.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Job description

Occupational therapists work with people with physical, mental or social disabilities to help them do everyday activities. You could be supporting individuals with physical rehabilitation, equipment for daily living, or self care.

Duties can include

■ Working with people to identify their goals and how they can achieve them.  
■ Helping people to adjust to their disability.  
■ Teaching someone who is recovering from a stroke how to do things themselves.  
■ Supporting people to live the life they want, regardless of illness or disability.
■ Advising housing departments on mobility issues.  
■ Helping individuals to cope with memory or sensory loss or mobility impairment.  
■ Providing specialist equipment to help people live independently, such as hand rails, wheelchair and hoists.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ planning and organisational skills
■ excellent communication skills
■ the ability to form good working relationships
■ digital skills, especially being able to use a computer.

Entry requirements

Usually you would be expected to have a degree or equivalent and may have other professional qualifications. You would be expected to have considerable experience in the specialism.

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Registered nurse

Job description

To become a registered nurse you should be fully trained and have an official certificate. As a registered nurse in adult social care you could work in a nursing home or out in the community. You could work with people who have long-term conditions or who have physical disabilities, people with learning disabilities or individuals with mental health conditions.

Duties can include

■ Performing a range of clinical tasks such as taking blood samples and dressing wounds.  
■ Recording individuals’ medical information.  
■ Assessing, planning and evaluating individuals’ care.  
■ Working in partnership with families and other professionals to plan care and support.    
■ Providing emotional, psychological, and spiritual support.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ flexibility and the ability to prioritise your workload
■ decision making and critical thinking  
■ a desire to learn and manage your own development
■ resilience and the ability to manage your own stress.

Entry requirements

To work as a registered nurse you must have either a Diploma or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Nursing. Entry requirements for the degree can include A-levels or an entry to degree programme (including a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Health & Social Care). Some experience of working in a social care or health setting will also be beneficial.

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SOCIAL WORKER

JOB DESCRIPTION

Social workers work with individuals and families to help them through difficult times and Improve outcomes in their lives. You could support older people, those with learning difficulties, physical and sensory disabilities and mental health conditions. You’ll usually work as part of a team, and take responsibility for a number of cases.

DUTIES CAN INCLUDE

■ Assessing the needs of individuals and building a relationship with them.  
■ Offering information and counselling.
■ Organising care plans to help people live independently in their local communities and adjust to changes in their lives.
■ Intervening where vulnerable people need safeguarding.
■ Assessing and managing risk.
■ Keeping records and writing reports.

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills.  There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ excellent listening and observational skills
■ assessment skills
■ the ability to lead a team
■ personal resilience
■ good people skills.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

To practise as a social worker you must hold a recognised Social Work degree and be registered with Social Work England. But please check BASW or Social Work England websites.

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Specialist co-ordinator, such as an end of life care or dementia care coordinator

Job description

There are a range of posts that have been created to support a coordinated approach to specific services such as end of life or dementia care. The roles may have different job titles such as coordinator, project lead or facilitator and may be based in a local authority, health or voluntary sector setting.

Duties can include

■ Working in partnership with a range of organisations - including statutory and volunteer organisations - to coordinate care services.  
■ Championing the needs of people who need care and support.  
■ Raising the profile of the services available.  
■ Implementing specific projects and running services.  
■ Working alongside clinical or specialist professionals.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills. There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ excellent communication skills
■ negotiating skills
■ the ability to work on own initiative  
■ coordination and organisational skills  
■ the ability to work in partnership with others across a range of sectors.  
■ the ability to motivate others.

Entry requirements

Usually you would be expected to have a degree or equivalent and may have other professional qualifications. You would be expected to have considerable experience in the specialism.

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SPECIALIST SOCIAL WORKER ROLES

JOB DESCRIPTION

There are a range of specialist roles which you can progress into as a qualified social worker. Many of them will be management roles such as a team leader or manager. However there are also a range of specialist advanced practitioner or advanced social work professional roles. These include things like senior mental health practitioners, safeguarding and reviewing specialists.

Duties can include

■ Using highly developed specialist knowledge of social work practice to take the lead on complex cases.
■ Researching and sharing up to date social work evidence-based practice with colleagues to support the evaluation and improvement of services.  
■ Mentoring, developing and supporting less experienced staff.
■ Preparing and delivering care proceedings to conferences and court hearings.
■ Chairing reviews.

What skills do I need?

Everyone working in social care needs English, number, digital and employability skills including team work and problem solving skills. You can find out more about the core skills needed to work in social care at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/coreskills.  There are also some specific skills needed to work in this role. These include:
■ a confident manner when dealing with emergency situations
■ exceptional negotiating and interpersonal skills
■ excellent assessment skills
■ care management skills    
■ effective multi-agency working.

Entry requirements

You need to be a qualified social worker with significant senior level front-line experience and relevant post qualification training

ROUTE TO ROLE

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ACADEMIC ROUTE

EXPERIENCE ROUTE

You can seek advice from the appropriate Higher Education Provider or Employer Supported Apprenticeship Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). Reflective practice, self directed study, Continuing professional development e.g. MSc. PhD. CPD courses.


More information coming soon...