Your day-to-day tasks will vary depending on the needs of the person you're caring for.

For people who need support to live at home and in their community, you'll:

• help with washing and dressing
• make food or help with eating
• get to know their interests and needs
• do household jobs, like washing clothes and shopping
• monitor their weight and record any concerns they have
• check they're taking their prescribed medications
• support their physical and mental wellbeing through activities

You could also:

• support families who have new caring responsibilities
• give emotional and practical support to children and young people
• work with other health and social care professionals
• help organise leisure activities and outings

You may need to wear a uniform.

You could work at an adult care home, at a client's home or stay overnight at people's homes.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.

While employed as a care worker you can develop your skills by training in specific areas, like autism awareness, communication skills or supporting people with dementia.

With experience, you can become a lead care worker. You can also move into more senior jobs, like managing people or services, if you study for further qualifications. For example, a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, or a degree in social work or nursing.