There can be many reasons people find themselves working in care; it might be that their parents/siblings are carers and they followed in their footsteps, they might have cared for a loved one and turned this experience into a new vocation, or maybe they were looking for a flexible work option around other commitments and home care fitted in.
It takes a unique individual to work in care. The work is not only rewarding but also challenging and emotional. However, if you possess the right attributes, you are not just a carer, but a vital part of the care industry.
Below, we have listed some of the key components we feel make a good care worker –
Friendly, kind and compassionate –
To work in care, you have to be kind. If clients are withdrawn or exhibit behavioural issues, having a kind and friendly presence is vital to ensure they feel happy and safe. Being open and warm helps care workers build rapport with their clients and develop better working relationships and trust.
Good communication, listening and observant –
Care workers regularly encounter individuals from diverse backgrounds with diverse health issues, which may impair their communication ability. Interacting effectivly with clients with individual needs will assist with positive working practices.
In addition to physical assistance, engagement and listening to clients are some of the most valuable services a care worker can provide.
Being alert to small changes in a client’s health may help screen potential complications before they become serious.
Reliable, adaptable & dedicated –
Our clients depend on their care. If a carer doesn’t show up, it could mean a client stays in bed all day or goes without a meal. This is why we need our care staff to be reliable. We understand that emergencies happen, and we can adapt, but we need our staff to be reliable 99% of the time to ensure our clients’ welfare.
Clients’ needs can change, as can your calls, from one client going into the hospital to another needing extra care. We will also give notice of changes where possible, but we also need our staff to be adaptable (within reason) to our client’s needs.
For many care workers, the role is not just a job, but a part of their identity. Putting others first comes naturally. It’s this dedication that, despite the emotional challenges, makes the care worker community so strong.
Sense of humour –
Everyone needs cheering up at times and there is nothing more our clients love than to laugh. For some, their carer might be the only person they see regularly, and many look forward to their carer’s visits. From jokes, singing, dancing, or just chatting, as a care worker, you will always try to make your client smile. After all, laughter truly is the best medicine sometimes.
Positive & Patient –
Everyone can have down days; our clients are no exception to this. As a carer, you need to be able to pick them up, encourage them to get up, get dressed, and try something new! But also have patience when they have a down day or are not in the mood to talk. Many of our clients have dementia or mental health conditions, so extra patience is needed to support their needs. If you stay calm and patient, this will also help them stay relaxed.
You’ll naturally build close relationships with your clients, and seeing their health suffer may not be easy. However, it can be infectious if you can remain strong and positive during these difficult times, helping your clients face such difficulties more effectively.
Trustworthy –
Our clients trust you to go into their homes and support them with aspects of their lives that many people will not see, so they must trust you. This trust is built by interacting and building a friendship, with all of the above attributes rolled in.
Whatever the reason you have to be a carer, we want you to know that your role in care is invaluable, and we are glad you chose to work in care.
At Papillon Home Care, we are always looking for people with these attributes to join our team, we have work to offer in Ashford, Dover, Folkestone and the Marsh.
