Debunking the Myth: Being a Care Assistant is More Than You Think

💡 Think care work is low-skilled and thankless? Think again.
When we think about care assistants, certain stereotypes often come to mind, like heavy lifting, rigid routines, doing basic tasks like helping with washing, dressing, or making a cup of tea, and being undervalued. Unfortunately, this important role is often underestimated and misrepresented as low-skill and low-reward. But the reality is far from that.
At Angel Carers, we know care work is a skilled, multifaceted and deeply rewarding profession filled with purpose, flexibility and human connection. It’s a journey marked by profound moments and the privilege of supporting people during their most vulnerable times – whether they’re facing physical or mental health challenges, loneliness, or overwhelming circumstances.
In this post, let’s debunk the most common myths about being a care assistant and reveal why it’s one of the most dignified, flexible and person-centred career pathways open to you today.
🛠️ Myth 1: Care Work is Low-Skilled and You Need Years of Experience
Contrary to popular belief, care work requires a high level of skill and dedication. Care workers require a diverse set of skills, including medical knowledge, communication skills, leadership, empathy, and the ability to handle complex situations. From assisting with personal care to managing medication, every day brings new responsibilities.
Many entry-level roles don’t require you to have had previous experience because new care assistants receive comprehensive training and ongoing support. At Angel Carers, we offer opportunities for our Care Assistants to pursue further qualifications and opportunities for career growth, including the ‘Skills for Care’ induction programme, Moving and Handling training, and medication administration. As you gain experience, there are opportunities to progress to senior roles or management.
💰 Myth 2: Carers are low-paid, aren’t they?
While care work has historically been associated with low wages, at Angel Carers we offer competitive pay – ranging from £13.00 to £19.50 per hour. We are proud to pay the Living Wage, plus 50p per mile for travel between client visits and outings. We believe fair compensation is essential for recognising the valuable work our carers do.
🧹 Myth 3: Care Work is just Menial Tasks
While a daily routine can include assisting with personal care, the role extends far beyond that. Care Assistants play a meaningful part in supporting the wellbeing of their clients, offering friendship and companionship, emotional support and promoting independence. You’ll get to know your clients on a personal level, understand their needs, and make a real difference in their lives.
😔 Myth 4: Care Work is Emotionally Draining and Thankless
Some assume care work is too physically and emotionally exhausting. However, this isn’t true. While it can be demanding, there are many roles within care, including administrative or management positions, that may better suit your strengths and lifestyle.
At Angel Carers, all of our staff receive 24/7 support for their safety and mental wellbeing. We ensure staff are supported day or night; if you’re feeling overwhelmed, need a friendly chat or have a question, we’re here for you seven days a week. We also encourage a strong support network within our teams and provide ongoing training to prepare for challenging situations.
The emotional reward – forming deep and meaningful bonds with clients and their families – far outweighs the difficulties, making care work profoundly fulfilling.
⏳ Myth 5: Poor Work-Life Balance
Does being a carer mean you spend all your time at work? No, think again.
Yes, shifts can be long hours and very demanding, but it is also incredibly flexible, and we offer a work pattern that suits your lifestyle and fits around your commitments and responsibilities. So, whether you’re a parent who needs to pick up your children from school, a student at university, or looking for a role that fits around your active social life, Angel Carers is the ideal company to join.
Some of our staff work full-time and part-time shifts, whilst others opt for a more flexible work arrangement, so we can make sure you have whatever flexibility you need.
🧭 Myth 6: Care Work is Boring and Repetitive
No two days are the same in Live-In or Domiciliary care work. Instead of viewing care work as monotonous, tedious, dull, repetitive and unfulfilling… think instead that you are taking clients to appointments, going with them for day trips, assisting with personal care, providing companionship or helping them partake in activities such as shopping, cooking, and so on. It’s a varied and stimulating job that offers plenty of opportunities to engage and make a difference.
📅 Myth 7: Care is Unstable or Insecure Work
With an ageing population and growing healthcare needs, care work offers excellent job security and career growth. The demand for skilled care assistants is increasing, making this a stable and rewarding career choice.
📢 Interested in making a difference?
Being a care assistant is much more than most people realise. It’s a career filled with purpose, connection, and meaningful impact.
If you want a flexible, rewarding role where your skills and compassion truly matter, Angel Carers is the perfect place to start. Join us and help transform lives—one caring relationship at a time.
👉 Visit Angel Carers Recruitment to learn more and submit your Live-In Care application or Domiciliary Care application today!
📧 Or email us directly at livein@angelcarers.com or at domiciliary@angelcarers.com to apply today!
📞 Or call us on 01308 459204 to speak with our friendly team.
Together, let’s make a difference – one visit at a time!