Care assistant work can fit around your family life. With a little planning, it can work.
Choose the Right Shift Pattern
When applying for posts most care providers will outline the typical shift pattern for that post. So for example if you are looking for a post to enable you to cover the school run then look for posts that are advertised as being able to finish by 2pm (e.g. an early shift). Alternatively look for a post that starts late in the afternoon (e.g. 3pm) to cover for when the children have gone to bed.
State Your Availability Early
At the application stage, you should inform the potential employer of your availability. Many care providers create their rotas around staff’s availability. This is why it is best to inform the employer of your availability from the start, to avoid last minute changes which could conflict with your family life.
Consider Bank or Part-Time Roles
Bank staff work flexible hours as and when required. As a parent or carer this can be a great option for you as you are able to choose when you wish to work. Community care providers also advertise part-time positions, typically between 16-24 hours per week.
Request Flexible Arrangements Formally
Once you have started employment you can, from day one, request your right to flexible working which could enable you to formalise your existing hours of work that surround your school terms and/or family/caring duties.
Work Locally to Cut Commute Time
Community care work is local, meaning you’ll usually be travelling within a small local area. This will help you to be home in time for dinner. A useful reference for Care Worker Jobs is caremark.ie/job-opportunities/care-assistant-job-opportunities/.
With a little planning, care assistant work can be just as flexible as you need it to be to fit around your family.
