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🤝 Support worker
Montana Gerry avatar
Written by Montana Gerry
Updated over a week ago

Job overview

Support Workers look after the well-being of young or vulnerable people. They help them to reach their potential, through practical, and emotional support, tailored to the individual. It is a varied and rewarding role as you help people improve their quality of life and achieve their goals.

Experience: Work or life experience (caring for a friend or family member) is welcomed but not necessary.

Work hours: Typically 1-39 hours per week which may include night shifts

Salary: £18,000-£30,000

We've helped many Beam members start work as a Support Worker. See their stories here.


Day to day

  • Helping service users with day-to-day activities including hobbies and meal prep

  • May include some personal care

  • Monitor the health of the service user and note and report any significant changes


Pros and cons of a support worker role

Pros:

Making a daily difference to a vulnerable person’s life

Lots of variety in the day-to-day and the opportunity to partake in fun activities

Full training provided, and great opportunities for progression within Healthcare

Support Workers working in residential settings are rarely working alone and can learn from colleagues

Cons:

Entry-level positions often paid at minimum wage

Personal care is intimate and may be hard, physical work

May require anti-social working hours such as early starts and weekends

Support Workers may be required to travel from house to house

Support Workers may be required to work alone in most shifts


Where to look for a role

There are many employers currently hiring and use search terms such as "support worker" or "support assistant" on jobs boards.

Some companies to get you started:

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