WORKING IN CARE

Useful skills

The right personality, natural abilities and your approach to a situation or problem are a huge asset when working in care. 

Employers often look for these before they look at qualifications –  you might be the perfect candidate without even knowing it!

Not all the skills listed are essential, but they are a good guide:

  • Patience
  • Empathy
  • Discretion
  • Communication
  • Calm approach, especially in difficult situations
  • Self motivation
  • Team player
  • Sense of humour

WORKING IN CARE

Core competencies

There are some key skills that are required of workers in the care sector, covering aspects from digital literacy to human rights. This is an overview of the main competencies you will need.

Not all the listed competencies are included. More detailed information can be found in the Care Certificate Standards here :

  • Digital literacy – this covers using digital devices, assessing information, using digital tools to communicate, and being safe and ethical when online,
  • Inclusive communication – using active listening, adapting your style
  • Duty of candour – be open and honest when things go wrong. Tell people, apologise, record it and provide support to anyone affected
  • Human rights and equality – treating people appropriately according to things like their age, culture, health, gender, beliefs and nationality
  • Work in a person-centred way, by putting the client’s needs first and ensuring they feel listened to.

Discover more…

THE WORK
THE PEOPLE
USEFUL SKILLS