People with social care experience more likely to work in sector

People with some experience of social care are almost three times more likely to consider working in the sector than those with limited or no knowledge, according to a new survey.

The survey by the social care special interest group at the Institute of Health and Social Care Management (IHSCM) was conducted to gauge current perceptions of the sector.

It found almost two thirds (64%) of all respondents would consider a career in social care, while those with first-hand experience (54%) are much more likely than those with limited or no knowledge (19%).

Most respondents said they believe that social care exists to support and care for the most vulnerable in our society, in particular the elderly.

Respondents were most aware of care homes (97%) and home care (92%) and least aware of extra care housing (54%), especially those with limited or no knowledge of social care.

And three quarters of respondents said they were aware of NHS services in the care sector which suggests a level of misunderstanding between healthcare and social care services

The findings of the survey are being shared to understand how to make the public more aware of social care services, including how to obtain reliable information, as well as highlighting the importance of social care to society and as a rewarding career choice.

‘It’s revealing to see that those people who have had some first-hand experiences of social care are three times more likely to want to work in our sector. This is a positive finding and demonstrates a greater need to introduce social care as a career option to young people, graduates and those in careers with transferable skills,’ said Jane Brightman, general manager of social care at IHSCM.

Adam Purnell, domiciliary and quality lead for Kepplegate and chair of IHSCM’s public image of social care subgroup, added: ‘Care workers have been going above and beyond to deliver the best support that they can give, while making personal sacrifices. This survey highlights the need for better public awareness of our sector in order to break down any remaining barriers and ensure care workers get the recognition they truly deserve.’

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