Senior carers and team leaders work in a wide variety of social care environments – from residential care homes, day centres to being out in the community – and they make a huge difference to people’s lives.

A key member of staff in social care, they deal directly with people’s care.

They are responsible for a range of practical things, like helping people with dressing, washing and eating.

As a senior carer, they will also have responsibility for other care workers and their shifts.

 

Qualifications

A level 3 advanced diploma - or an apprenticeship in health and social care working towards this level - is desirable. But it is not always essential, as a senior carer may be given the opportunity to progress towards their qualification whilst working.

Diplomas are the current qualifications in health and social care, which have replaced NVQs, but some workers still hold NVQs which are still valid. In the case of some workers, they may hold a level 3 NVQ.