How to become a care worker in the UK
Updated 29 October 2026
Care work is one of the few careers in the UK you can start without formal qualifications. Most providers train new starters, and there are care jobs in every town. This guide covers what the job involves, what you need before you start, and how to get your first role.
What does a care worker do?
Care workers help people who need support with daily life. That might be older people, people with a learning disability, people living with dementia, or people recovering from illness. The work depends on the setting and on each person's care plan.
- Personal care, such as washing, dressing and using the toilet
- Help with meals, drinks and medication
- Moving safely around the home, sometimes with equipment
- Company, conversation and activities
- Writing short notes so the next carer knows how the person is
Where care workers work
Care homes and nursing homes employ care assistants and healthcare assistants on shifts. Home care (domiciliary care) workers visit people in their own homes, often with a rota of calls across a local area. Supported living services employ support workers who help people live independently. Live-in carers stay in a person's home for a block of days or weeks.
Each setting suits different people. Home care usually needs a driving licence, while care homes suit people who prefer to work in one place with a team around them.
Do you need qualifications?
No formal qualifications are needed for most entry-level roles. What providers look for is kindness, reliability and good communication. Once you start, your employer will train you, usually towards the Care Certificate, which covers the basic standards every new care worker in England should meet.
Later you can work towards a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care, which helps you move into senior carer or team leader roles.
Checks you will need
- An enhanced DBS check. Your employer usually arranges this.
- Proof of your right to work in the UK.
- References, normally from your most recent employer or a teacher if you are new to work.
If you already have an enhanced DBS on the DBS Update Service, a new employer can check it online, which can speed up your start date.
How to get your first care job
Look for adverts that say they welcome people new to care and offer paid training. Apply directly to the provider where you can, because you get a faster answer and the provider knows exactly who you are.
On Amica Connect you create one free profile with your DBS, right to work and references, then use it to apply to any provider. You can browse care jobs by town or by role and get an email when a new job is posted near you.
Common questions
Can I become a care worker with no experience?
Yes. Many providers hire people new to care and train them on the job. Adverts usually say when no experience is needed.
How old do you need to be to work in care?
Most providers ask for applicants aged 18 or over, and some home care roles ask for 21 or over because of driving insurance. Each advert says what is needed.
Who pays for the DBS check?
It varies. Many providers pay for it or refund it after a few months. Check the advert or ask at interview.
Looking for a care job?
Create one free profile and apply directly to care providers near you.