Working within social care is rewarding knowing that you are enhancing an individual’s life for the better. No day is the same and can be challenging however having particular personal qualities can support you within a social care role. We have noted some qualities below to provide an idea of what an individual needs to thrive within this sector.
Empathy – A skill which is considered extremely important within social care. Having empathy gives others the ability to understand what another individual may be experiencing. Showing empathy helps calm situations and makes the individual feel supported and not alone.
Teamwork – Working with your team helps provide consistency and ensures the same quality of practice is presented by all in the best interest of the individual being supported. By providing consistency allows individuals to feel secure and safe with the care they are receiving.
Patience – Some days can be challenging physically and emotionally but remaining patience helps provide a solution to make things easier. Patience removes barriers from mistakes being made in frustration or panic.
Confidence – Providing the best level of care requires an individual who is confident in the service they are providing. Social care continuously requires decisions to be made to ensure that the best level of care is being delivered.
Communication – Every role requires communication, however within social care communication is a key skill. It provides a high level of care as the supported individual understands what care they are receiving and helps build a strong professional relationship.
Experience – Training will always be provided by the employer with guidance on how to deliver the best service. However, personal and previous experience within the social care background helps deliver an outstanding level of care. By reflecting on experiences helps build resilience and helps understand the individual more.
Willing to learn new things – The social care sector has a wealth of knowledge on how to deliver the best care but there is continuously new guidance to promote better care. Having the commitment to learn new things is vital to make sure that old and unsafe practices are not being used.
Cultural understanding – It is important to understand that the expectations of different cultures may vary from your own expectations. To gain an understanding it is crucial to know the person you are providing care for as it removes any form of discrimination and discomfort for the individual.
Commitment – A role within social care requires an individual who has commitment to achieve the best results for the supported individual. Certain roles require consistent figures to provide stability and normal routines.
There is a field of qualities that can be contributed to a social care role and the above provides an insight into what makes an excellent candidate for a role within social care.
