5 more skills that home carers need

Being a home carer isn’t an easy job and it’s not for everyone. At the end of the day, you’re in charge of someone else’s life and wellbeing. Your clients are likely to be in a vulnerable group, of either children or adults, and these may be people that have very little support from anyone else, so the responsibility is on your shoulders. A carer needs to be understanding and supportive to the individual that they are caring for.  If you believe you meet the criteria to be a carer, then you may wish to consider getting into contact with an elderly care London agency, such as https://www.guardiancarers.co.uk/services/elderly-care

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A cheery manner

A lot of the people in your care will have days where they feel very alone and very depressed and you may be the only person they see that day, so it’s essential that you come in with a smile on your face, as that instantly lifts their mood. A good sense of humour is another key skill as having a laugh with someone not only brightens their day, but your day too.

A caring, patient attitude and a Basic DBS.

As you will be working with a variety of people with all sorts of mental and physical health problems, it’s essential that you can be caring and patient. If you decide to go into care for the elderly, then you’re likely to have clients with dementia as well as a variety of physical health problems.

You will need a DBS check in order to work in home care. This check ensures that you do not have any criminal convictions, and that there is no other reason why you cannot work with vulnerable people.

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An ability to do several things at once

Carers have to be switched on and able to deal with several things at once, as you will be expected to chat to a client and fill in their care plan simultaneously. Also, if an accident such as a fall occurs, you will need to reassure your client and pass on any medical information required by a doctor or paramedic.

An ability to think fast on the spot

The best way to prevent a problem is quick thinking. This can also save a life. For more information on becoming a carer, you could visit https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/job-profiles/residential-support-worker.

The ability to be a good timekeeper

You will be expected to be in certain places at certain times, so punctuality is critical.