Healthcare Assistant Summary
Are you a compassionate, kind and caring person?
Are you a people person who enjoys interacting with people and sharing stories?
We invite you to become a part of our dedicated team of Healthcare Assistants at Graceage Care where you will be doing domiciliary care, providing care and support to service users in the comfort of their own home.
● Provide excellent personal care to customers in their day-to-day activities and fulfilling individual needs.
● Ensure vulnerable individuals are safeguarded from abuse and report any signs of alleged abuse which you may witness or be made aware off.
● To assist people with their medication at the agreed level of support and as detailed in their individual risk assessments and care plans.
● Prepare meals with knowledge of service user’s likes/dislikes, nutritional needs and cultural requirements while maintaining hygiene.
● Documenting records of service users such as their personal information, care plans, medical records, changes to health etc on carer’s notes.
● Using manual handling equipment safely and correctly.
● Attend training seminars and staff meetings when requested.Who we are looking for:
• compassionate, attentive, kind and individuals to interact with service users.
• Good teamwork skills to collaborate with colleagues.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Honest, Reliable and Ability to Learn.
• Good documentation skills.Key Requirements:
– Valid driving license with access to own car (beneficial)
– Up-to-date Enhanced DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) is desirable but not essential.
– Must have a right to work in the UK.
Benefits of working with us:
● Access to Care Certificate and other Training Qualification.
● Positive workplace – Staff Welfare and Appreciation.
● Free access to Blue Light Card.
● Paid travel time.
● Flexible and negotiable schedules.
● Regular wellbeing check in.
● Paid Shadow Shift.
● Paid holidays.
● Free uniform.
● Free DBS cost.
● Access to skill development for career development.
● Opportunities for Career Progression.
● Access to support and mentoring from our supportive team.
● Excellent technology to support seamless, cost-effective and time-efficient working environment.
● Certificate of Sponsorship available.
Working at Graceage Care doesn’t just mean working as a carer for life. We promote career development and as you are working as a carer, you will meet different people with different life experiences, share stories, and develop various skills that will contribute to your personal development. Here are a few…
• communication skills.
• Problem solving skills.
• Time-management & organisation skills.
• Team work skills.
• Patience.
• Documentation skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Health & Safety Awareness: infection control, medication administration.
• Personal Care Skills: Protecting Dignity & Privacy.
Healthcare Assistant FAQs
What does a healthcare assistant (HCA) do?
Healthcare assistants support nurses and other healthcare professionals in delivering care to patients. Their duties can include helping patients wash and dress, serving meals, assisting with mobility, making beds, monitoring vital signs (like temperature and pulse), and providing comfort to patients. In GP surgeries or health centres, HCAs may also sterilise equipment, take blood samples, process lab samples, and support health education work.
What are the entry requirements to become a healthcare assistant?
There are no set entry requirements. Employers generally expect good literacy and numeracy skills and may ask for GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and maths. Some may prefer candidates with a relevant healthcare qualification such as a BTEC or NVQ. Experience in care work, either paid or voluntary, is often desirable.
What personal skills and qualities are needed?
Key skills and qualities include:
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Being caring, kind, and cheerful
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Willingness to perform personal care tasks
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Ability to follow instructions and procedures
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Good communication, organisation, and observational skills
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Ability to work as part of a team and use initiative.
What training and development opportunities are available?
New HCAs typically receive training in basic nursing skills and work towards the Care Certificate. Further qualifications, such as the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate or Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, may be available. With experience, HCAs can progress to senior roles or pursue further training to become a nursing associate or registered nurse.
What settings do healthcare assistants work in?
HCAs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, GP surgeries, mental health services, and community care. The specific duties may vary depending on the setting.
What is the typical pay and working pattern?
HCAs in the NHS usually start on Band 2 of the Agenda for Change pay scale. The standard working week is around 37.5 hours and may include shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays. Benefits can include a pension scheme, health service discounts, and annual leave.
What are common interview questions for healthcare assistants?
Interviewers may ask about your motivation for the role, relevant experience, strengths and weaknesses, ability to handle stressful situations, and how you would deal with challenging patients. They may also ask situational questions to assess your problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
Is there a difference between a healthcare assistant and a healthcare support worker?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Job titles may vary depending on the setting, such as clinical support worker or nursing assistant, but the core responsibilities are similar.
Is the Care Certificate mandatory?
While not always mandatory, the Care Certificate is considered best practice for those performing delegated healthcare tasks. It ensures a standard level of competence in care roles.
Can I progress in my career as a healthcare assistant?
Yes. With experience and further qualifications, you can move into senior HCA roles, become an assistant practitioner, nursing associate, or train as a registered nurse or other healthcare professional.
To apply for this job please visit findajob.dwp.gov.uk.