Jobs within health and social care

1. Physical therapist

Occupational therapists assist persons whose health prohibits them from doing various tasks, such as getting dressed or running errands.

Occupational therapists assist patients in regaining mobility and independence by recommending practical solutions such as new equipment or modifying their surroundings.

A degree in occupational therapy accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council is normally required to become an occupational therapist. Work experience or volunteering that demonstrates that you have taken on a caring role can benefit your university application.

2. caregiver

Care professionals assist individuals in living more independently, which may include assisting with social and physical activities, scheduling appointments, and assisting clients with showering and dressing.

You might work with a wide range of clients, including those with learning difficulties, physical disabilities, drug abuse issues, mental health challenges, and the elderly. Many care professionals work in people's homes or in residential facilities, making it one of the most important community care positions.

Being a caregiver may be both emotionally and physically taxing. You must be capable of working on your own initiative and managing your time. You must have excellent listening skills as well as the ability to comprehend and follow various regulations and procedures.

To become a care worker, you do not need any credentials; however, many companies may want GCSEs in English and arithmetic. Work experience or volunteering will demonstrate to employers that you possess the relevant abilities and values. You may also begin a career as a caregiver by completing an apprenticeship, which allows you to learn on the job while earning a paycheck. Look for apprenticeship opportunities here.

3. Rehabilitation professional

Rehab worker is one of the lesser-known health and social care profession pathways. They assist individuals in regaining their independence after being unwell or after an accident. Adults with learning impairments, persons with sight or hearing loss, people with mental health difficulties, or those who use drugs are all supported by rehab staff.

Rehab staff must have good communication abilities as well as a sensitive and empathetic demeanor. They are also adept at operating under duress. To become a rehabilitation worker, you don't need need any credentials, however a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care would be advantageous.

4. therapist

Counsellors assist patients in working through tough moments in their life, such as when they have just lost a loved one or are dealing with a long-term disability. Counsellors assist clients in making good adjustments and improving their own mental health.

Counsellors must have the ability to put individuals at ease as well as excellent listening abilities. A degree is not required to work as a counsellor. The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy suggests a three-stage training path, which may be found here.

5. Psychologist for health

Health psychologists raise people's health knowledge and attitude. They assist their patients in making beneficial adjustments in their attitude and behavior, like as cutting down on drinking or eating more healthily.

Health psychologists operate in a variety of contexts, including hospitals, municipal governments, and universities.

Strong critical thinking and research skills are required for this position. To become a health psychologist, you must first have a master's degree in health psychology. Find out more here.

6. a social worker

Social work is one of the more prominent professional pathways in health and social care. Social workers assist individuals and families in living better, more satisfying lives. They assist individuals (typically referred to as clients or'service users') to live freely while also protecting them from violence or abuse.

They deal with individuals at various phases of life, from newborns to the elderly. Individual assistance is provided by social workers, who can help clients find additional resources that they may need.

Problem-solving abilities are essential for social workers since they must counsel individuals and determine what assistance they want. Social workers must also be able to operate successfully in groups. A degree in social work recognised by the Health and Care Professions Council is required to practice as a social worker. Discover how to become a social worker.

7. Health care provider

Health visitors, who provide crucial community care, are nurses or midwives who have completed further training and certifications as "expert community public health nurses."

This implies they have the knowledge to determine what health requirements various individuals may have. They work with families, children, and the larger community to promote healthy living and sickness prevention. They collaborate with a variety of different health specialists.

Health visitors are patient, compassionate, and capable of dealing with emotionally difficult circumstances. Health visitors must be fully certified nurses or midwives, as well as having completed a course in Specialist Community Public Health Nursing or Health Visiting (SCPHN or HV).