There are various career options within the healthcare
and social sector. Each career path requires a different skillset and approach
to physical, emotional and social support. Healthcare positions involve helping
people to have a better quality of life, particularly those who are vulnerable
or elderly.
A
whopping 1.5 million people work in the healthcare sector in the UK. This
industry contributes around £43 billion to the economy and thousands of jobs.
You could work in childcare protection, counselling services, fostering and
much more.
You will need to be educated to degree level for some
roles, like social work, child psychotherapy, community education and education
psychology. However, for others, you can access positions through work
experience, volunteering and apprenticeship programmes. Aim
to get hands-on experience in a healthcare setting to see if you enjoy the
role and want to pursue it in the future.
Here are a few of the roles in the health and social
sector and what they entail.
Occupational therapist
Occupational therapists work with individuals whose
health stops them from doing certain activities. You will need a degree in
occupational therapy, which the Health and Care Professions Council has
approved. Occupational therapists are excellent problem solvers and can work
with both other professionals and their clients.
Social workers
Social workers often specialise in a particular field of
healthcare. For example, you may choose to specialise in working with adults
who have a physical disability or with children with mental health conditions.
Do your research and select a field that you think you’d excel in.
Care worker
Care workers focus on helping individuals live more
independently. They may help with physical activities, social interactions and
book appointments. Care workers may shower their clients, dress them, and help
them with living independently. Care workers look after vulnerable individuals
and the elderly.
Being a care worker is emotionally and physically
demanding. You need to be prepared for the toll this role can take on your
mental and physical health. Manage your time, set boundaries and use your
initiative to be the best care worker you can.
Support staff
Care facilities need chefs, drivers and community
transport staff to help out. Support staff may drive a
minibus that takes care home residents back and forth to their appointments
and activities. Support staff are a vital part of any care facility.
Therapies
Art, music and drama therapists can help the client to
understand their emotions and internal conflicts. Art therapies can help to
reduce anxiety, stress and even manage addiction in some clients. This line of
social work focuses less on taking care of the individual daily, like a care
worker.
The healthcare industry is a rewarding industry to work
in. Make sure to do your research and consider whether this demanding career is
the one for you.
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