#YouCanCare Week 2022

Happy #YouCanCare Week!

#YouCanCare is an official awareness week that highlights the benefits of working in care, and encourages people to consider entering the care profession.

As there are many misconceptions about the care industry, we want to discuss the reality of working as a Care Assistant for HCL.

Earn More Than The Average

One common belief that makes people hesitant to apply for care jobs is that care workers are only paid minimum wage. This is not the case for HCL Care Assistants. Although the average hourly rate for a Care Assistant in the UK is £8.92 (via payscale.com), HCL are proud to pay our carers between £10.20-10.50 per hour. You also get extra for bank holidays and your mileage is covered!

No Experience Needed

Another prevalent misconception is that you must have prior experience in the field. This is also untrue. HCL are pleased to provide entire mandatory training for free as long as you are reliable, compassionate, and committed to establishing a career that will make a difference!

Guaranteed Hours

Another common misconception is that all home care agencies only offer 0-hour contracts. However, here at HCL we offer variable hour contracts, ensuring that you have work every week.

Start as a Carer, Stay as a Friend

Finally, and perhaps most widely held, is the idea that all care calls are purely centred on personal hygiene – washing, bathing, and toileting service users. Although this is a vital aspect of delivering care, it is not always the case. Some service users may require assistance administering medication, need help with their grocery shopping or simply want a cup of tea and some company.

This is one of the main reasons why so many of our Care Assistants love working in care – the social aspect that allows them to build relationships with the service users – take Deborah for example:

‘I find my job as a carer very satisfying. Being able to deliver care knowing you have been able to help someone to the best of your ability. Forming friendships having a chat and brightening someone’s day a little, makes me very proud to be a carer.’

We help our carers transform their compassionate nature into something that will truly make a difference for our service users. We hope this may have given you the extra push needed to start your rewarding career in care.