In this document You are here: A career in care Would you care? What qualities do care and support workers have? Hounslow Care Providers Here's what some of our care workers have to say... Hounslow care providers by locality Current vacancies A career in care It doesn't matter about your background or how old you are, if you want to help people there's a social care job for you. You don’t necessarily need any qualifications or previous work experience to get a job in social care. What’s really important is your values and attitude towards working with people who need care and support. If you’re new to social care, there are lots of ways you can access jobs in the sector. How do I get a job in social care? Some people begin their care career as a volunteer or apprentice and others as care assistants. Many people decide to go into care work after first caring for someone they know. This may be your situation right now if you care for an elderly friend or relative. Many people find this role rewarding and decide that they want to turn this into a career. Some people first study for a social care qualifications such as a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care. Don't worry if you don't have these qualifications though - if you're interested, you can work towards them once you've started in the role. Other people may have had a completely different career but decided they wanted a change, for example using their managerial experience in retail and personal care experience to work at a supervisor level. "Hounslow is blessed with a thriving social care sector that has risen to the challenge of caring for our vulnerable and shielded residents throughout the coronavirus pandemic. These amazing people have had to cope with concerns over their own safety and that of their loved ones, have often had to cover for colleagues who were self-isolating and had to juggle many more responsibilities besides. "Their commitment and contribution is recognised by all and the vital role played by the sector throughout the pandemic has earned the sector great respect and admiration." Next page Would you care?