UK question. Does anyone know if I can become a carer to the elderly if I don't drive?

Question

I am interested in working with the elderly in their homes doing things like small errands (like going to the post office or bank, a little shopping) or help with basic finance like bank statements etc. I know I would stand a better chance if I drove its but not possible at this time. Also do I need qualifications. I am waiting for Social Services to send me some info.

Answer 1

if Social Services want someone who can drive, this will be stated in the person specification for the job. I am sure there will be some roles which not not need you to be able to drive, but it all depends on how SS have designed the job.
If you find that they do want someone who can drive, contact your local Volunteer Centre and see if there is a local charity who needs this type of volunteer help for their older clients.

Answer 2

In the village were I live and another nearby village, there are two rows of elderly people's bungalows. Both sets are warden controlled - ie if the elderly person falls over and cann't get back up, there is a cable/button they pull/push to summon help - the warden lives in another property nearby.

Some of these people can manage most of the time on their own, but they are reassured by knowing that there is somebody nearby 24 hours a day to help them if they need it.

Apart from Social Services try contacting other organisations that help the elderly in their own homes - St Monicas Trust is one.

Answer 3

Have you tried your local AGE Concern..

If not give them a call, they always looking for someone Young, who can help elderly people within there homes...

You will need a CRBC (Criminal Records Check)

If not they have day centre's around the country, who take elderly people in, they can have a bath, they get feed a hot meal and pudding, they get picked up and dropped off, and can have there hair done, nails cut etc, the list goes on, but by trying them at least you have your foot in the door, and you can get NVQ training free.....At least it maybe a start....

Answer 4

if you live near lots of old people it may be an option, although transport would enable you to run errands quicker. Maybe think about getting a job in a proper care home to start with, that way you could get some good experience, references, and earn some money to pass your driving test.

Answer 5

Yes you can although there will be a lot of leg work for you! My sister in law is a home care worker and she doesn't drive. She doesn't have any formal qualifications but you are better to have a police disclosure cert,this proves you are who you say you are. There are lots of businesses around looking for workers like you,and although not brilliantly paid it is a worthwhile job.

Answer 6

Yes it is possible, but not being a driver will restrict the opportunities open to you. A lot depends on which area you wish to work. Domiciliary Care companies in urban areas may be able to provide work as a 'walker' but companies in rural areas such as the one I work for would struggle to find work for you as our clients tend to be spread out over a wide geographical area.
You don't need qualifications but would be expected to undertake NVQ level II in social care.

Answer 7

Of course you can they have walkers in care settings as well as drivers xx.

Answer 8

yes you can my wife is a community support assistant (homecare)and a lot of her friends at work dont drive.it can involve a lot of walking.depending what the needs are of the client depends on if you need 1 or 2 carers so you may end up with a driver anyway.good luck.

Answer 9

Depends how close together your clients would live. It would mean a lot of walking for you, and might not be practical.