Social care covers a lot of ground, from elderly care to supporting those with disabilities. If you've had your heart set on a rewarding career, this is a great industry for you. Browse the selection of courses available in the UK today and start your journey.
Social care covers a lot of ground, from the care of the elderly and vulnerable to social work for children considered to be at high risk of harm. The official definition of social care is set out by the National Health Service (NHS) and includes:
Social care services is a broad term that refers to supporting and assisting the most vulnerable in society. Social care services are covered by national insurance, and much of the work is set out by the Care Act 2014, so working in social care means that your income and care rights are protected by legislation that won’t be affected by other developments such as Brexit or a change of prime minister.
Adult social services are that which refers to the care of vulnerable adults, including:
Adult social care is crucial to the wellbeing of society and carers will need a lot of skills to succeed. Home care can allow the elderly and vulnerable to stay in their own homes for longer and reassure their families that they’re safe. Social care providers may work in other people’s homes, but they may also work in aged care facilities and integrated care systems, with local councils and local governments to ensure that care is given to those of any adult age group, from 18 to above 40s to ensure that clients have the best care possible, along with staying connected to the rest of the world in terms of the latest news and events and being involved with groups and organisations.
Child social care is a term used by the care system to describe services given to those under 18, including:
Child social care is one of the most important parts of the social care sector, and social workers, childcare workers, and paediatric employees are essential for the system to properly function.
First, consider which area of the social care you want to work in. Go to local authorities and local services to find out more about specific areas that appeal to you, also considering social media and what social care needs are at the moment. After that, the best thing you can do is do a course in the area that you’re interested in.
The social care workforce is made up of qualified professionals because you’re working with the most vulnerable people in our society, so have to have, at a minimum, a short course under your belt. There’s work available all over the UK from London to Wales to the Hebrides. If you want to start genuinely making a difference in people’s lives, browse our list of available social care courses today!
