It highlights the range of job opportunities within adult social care and explains how you can get into and progress a career in care.

Why?

The aim of social care is to support people to have the best quality of life they can and help them to maintain their independence, dignity and overall well-being.

Who?

You'll support a diverse range of individuals, from adults with disabilities to those dealing with mental or physical health conditions and older people.

Where?

People can receive social care in their own homes, residential care homes, community settings like day centres, or supported living accommodation.

Qualifications or prior work experience may not always be necessary, depending on the role. What truly matters is possessing the right values, behaviours, and attitudes to effectively work with those in need of care and support.

• You’re reliable, trustworthy and committed to delivering good care

• You spend time listening to people to get to know them

• English skills

• Number skills

• Digital skills

• Employability skills

Educational courses

Enrol in courses at school, college, or a training institution to deepen your understanding of social care and acquire relevant knowledge and skills. Some courses may include work experience, providing a pathway to a role in the sector. Some care providers also offer pre-employment training.

Apprenticeship

Apply for a social care apprenticeship to gain practical experience, achieve a qualification, and earn a wage. Apprenticeships typically last between 12 months and two years and include a combination of on-the-job learning, where you work directly with clients and colleagues, and off-the-job learning, which may involve classroom training or workshops. This comprehensive approach helps you develop your skills and knowledge effectively. 

Apply for advertised vacancies

Explore different roles in social care. Before applying, consider the roles you are interested in. Keep an eye on local authority websites, private sector websites or national recruitment platforms such as the 'WeCare Wales' jobs portal for advertised vacancies.

Volunteering or work experience

If you're new to adult social care and want to explore the field, consider volunteering or gaining work experience. Your school, college, or job centre may assist you, or you can contact organisations directly.

• Do qualifications relevant to your role

• There are a variety of qualifications at different levels in social care.

• You could access Welsh government-funded apprenticeship qualifications through a learning provider or college. Your employer might also cover the costs of these qualifications, making them more accessible and affordable for you.

Types of progression

Sideway moves: Explore diverse job roles, which may involve working in different settings or with varied groups of people.

Upward Shifts: Move into positions with greater responsibilities, requiring further skills, knowledge and qualifications.

Your journey in adult social care is not just a job; it’s a continuous exploration of possibilities. By investing in your skills and embracing new challenges, you can shape a fulfilling and impactful career in the vibrant adult social care sector.

Adapting to change

Social care is ever-evolving, adapting to the needs of an aging population and those living with multiple conditions. The goal is to help them live on their own at home, reducing the need for hospitals. This change has created new jobs combining social care and health knowledge. Roles like dementia, end-of-life care and learning disabilities offer unique career paths.

Adult social care qualifications are vocational qualifications. This means they enable the learner to gain the knowledge and skills they need for their role. The level description is about the job role requirements not academic ability.

Steps to Qualifications

Choose Your Path: Explore the framework to find qualifications that align with your desired role.

Funding Options: Your employer is committed to sponsoring and funding your entry-level qualifications, ensuring that you have the support to pursue and attain your qualification.

Find a Learning Provider:

Explore various options such as in-house training, local colleges, or online platforms like the Open University. Local colleges provide a diverse range of social care qualifications, or you can pursue them while working in the sector.

Level 3: Builds on this foundation, delving deeper into the complexities of care provision, including more advanced skills in assessment, planning, and supporting individuals with diverse needs.

Level 4: Focuses on leadership and management within adult health and social care, exploring strategic planning, policy implementation, and the development of effective care delivery systems.

Level 5: Advances further into management and leadership, emphasising critical analysis, decision-making, and strategic planning in complex health and social care settings, preparing individuals for senior managerial roles.