Carer
What you'd actually do
The work involves helping people wash, dress, eat, take medication and move around, as well as keeping them company and noticing when something is wrong. Compassion, patience and respect for people's dignity matter most, alongside the physical side of helping people move and the emotional side of supporting people through tough times.
Hours often include early mornings, evenings, nights and weekends, the work can be physically and emotionally tiring, and pay commonly starts around the minimum wage. You may work in someone's home, a care home or in the community, and the relationships you build can be hugely rewarding.
You can usually start with no qualifications and full training on the job, often working towards a recognised care certificate or apprenticeship. By law you will need an enhanced DBS check because you work with vulnerable people, and the role can lead on to senior carer or nursing roles.