- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to work well with others
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- customer service skills
- a desire to help people
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to understand people’s reactions
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Your day-to-day tasks might include:
- checking residents’ needs and progress
- providing physical care, which could include bathing, toileting, dressing and feeding
- providing one-to-one counselling or group therapy sessions
- teaching daily living skills like budgeting, shopping and claiming benefits
- providing leisure and creative activities in a safe and supportive setting
- helping residents to deal with problems and become independent
- talking with residents' families and arranging family and home visits
You could work in the community or at an adult care home.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
With experience, you could take on more responsibility as a senior support worker or manager.
You could also train as a social worker.
You can find out more about becoming a residential support worker from Think Care Careers.
