Healthcare Assistant Job Overview
We are seeking compassionate and dedicated healthcare assistant to provide high-quality support to individuals in need of assistance. The ideal candidate will have experience in various care settings, including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospice care. As a Care Worker, you will play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for our clients by delivering personalised care and support tailored to their unique needs.
Healthcare Assistant Duties
- Assist clients with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
- Administer medication as prescribed and monitor clients for any side effects or changes in condition.
- Provide companionship and emotional support to clients, fostering a positive environment.
- Support individuals with dementia care and behaviour management strategies to ensure their comfort and safety.
- Engage clients in social activities and encourage participation in recreational programmes.
- Perform heavy lifting when necessary to assist clients with mobility or transfers.
- Maintain accurate records of client care and report any changes in health or behaviour to the appropriate healthcare professionals.
- Collaborate with nursing staff and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care is delivered.
Healthcare Assistant Requirements
- Previous experience in Domiciliary Care, senior care is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of medication administration procedures and health monitoring techniques.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build rapport with clients and their families.
- A compassionate nature with a genuine desire to help others improve their quality of life.
- Ability to perform heavy lifting as required by client needs.
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings and weekends if necessary.
- Relevant qualifications or training in care work would be advantageous but not essential.
- Must Hold FULL UK driving license and own Car.
- Female
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Flexitime
- UK visa sponsorship
Physical Setting:
- Homecare
- Live-in
FAQs Domiciliary Healthcare Assistant
Below are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the role of a Domiciliary Healthcare Assistant (Domiciliary HCA) in the UK, tailored to this specific field as of 01:24 PM BST on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
1. What Does a Domiciliary Healthcare Assistant Do?
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Domiciliary HCAs provide care to patients in their own homes, assisting with personal care (e.g., bathing, dressing), meal preparation, medication reminders, mobility support, and light housekeeping. They also monitor health conditions and report changes to healthcare professionals.
2. What Qualifications Are Required?
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No formal qualifications are mandatory, but GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and math are often preferred. Experience in care (voluntary or paid) is advantageous. A Care Certificate or NVQ Level 2/3 in Health and Social Care is commonly required or provided during training.
3. How Can I Start with No Experience?
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Begin with voluntary work or a care apprenticeship. Many employers offer on-the-job training, including the Care Certificate, and value a compassionate attitude, reliability, and willingness to learn.
4. What Skills Are Needed?
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Essential skills include empathy, good communication, time management, and physical stamina for travel and lifting. Basic health monitoring skills (e.g., checking pulse) and a driving license (for some roles) are often beneficial.
5. What Are the Working Hours?
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Typically 37.5 hours per week, with flexible shifts including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and overnight calls. Part-time and bank (on-call) contracts are common due to the need for 24/7 coverage.
6. What Is the Salary Range?
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Salaries range from £11 to £13 per hour (£22,000–£27,000 annually), depending on experience, location, and employer. Private agencies may pay slightly more, up to £14–£15 per hour for experienced staff.
7. What Training Is Provided?
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Initial training often includes a Care Certificate (completed within 12 weeks) covering safety, dignity, and basic care skills. Additional training may cover manual handling, dementia care, or first aid, often tailored to home-based needs.
8. Can I Progress in This Career?
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Yes, progression to Senior Domiciliary HCA, Care Coordinator, or Registered Nurse is possible with experience and further qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 3 or nursing degree).
9. What Challenges Might I Face?
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Challenges include travel between clients, working alone, managing unpredictable schedules, and dealing with clients’ emotional or health crises. Training in lone working and risk assessment helps address these.
10. What Support Is Available?
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Employers provide supervision, regular team meetings, and access to helplines. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) oversees standards, and HCAs can seek advice from unions like Unison or the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) if registered.
Additional Notes
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A valid driver’s license and car are often required due to travel demands. A DBS check is mandatory, and roles may involve working with vulnerable adults or children. Check job listings on sites like NHS Jobs, Indeed UK, or care agencies (e.g., Care UK) for opportunities.
To apply for this job please visit www.glassdoor.com.