Hello, I am 42 and spent the last ten years bringing my family up. Apart from working in Libary and some shop work I have little experience in anything so I decided to apply for a Care Support Worker. I got the job which I am very happy with and I start my training next week with lifting and handeling.

My question to you is.. during my interview the lady mentioned that after three months I get to do a NVQ . I did ask her what that involved but she didnt explain that well. Can someone please tell me what this will involve? Im really very nervous because I have been out of work for so long.

regards

Hi NickyUK,
Don't panic!!! The NVQ or QCF more likely is just about confirming that you can do your job properly and that you know why you are doing it a certain way. A lot of the requirements for the award will be covered in someone observing you working and you will be given the opportunity to talk about and explain your job.
Not worth loosing sleep over, you'll be fine.
Steadysue

thankyou for your reply Sue.. I feel much better about that.

However.. I have one more worry. I have been reading the website of the company I have joined and I know that the NVQ after three months is a requirment and also 'A numeracy and literacy programme is also available to you free of charge.' Now is the Numeracy and literacy a requirment or is it my choice? I am terrified of Maths. Maths is my down fall. I avoid it where possible. If I have to sit in a class room and be asked maths questions in front of people I will be a mess.

Hello,
I can only speak for what I know and that is that when someone gets signed up they have a workbook to complete for literacy and numeracy. I'm fairly sure it's a requirement for funding but if you mess it up, even big time, it doesn't matter, you'll just (apparently) get offered more support. Answers are multi choice so you've got a chance of being right!
Steadysue

i was new to care after being out of work for nearly ten years but have been in care now for just over 18 months and have nearly finished my level 2 diploma it may seem daunting at first but remember there are always people you can ask to help from work colleagues to your assessor

NickyUK
dont worry i am 52 and have only been in care 18 months after not working for eleven years. i have nearly finished my level two diploma and found that there was always someone you can ask for help.

As an assessor H&SC and as a past manager in my opinion often thebest carers are those who happen upon the vocation. Most people have cared all their lives -kids parents etc and also the values of caring - kind compassionate etc etc are either attributes you have or not !!! No matter how qualified/experienced you are if you do not possess the attributes and values you will never make a good social carer.
The level 2 is not hard and a good assessor will giuide you through, once you get going you will be able to link your practice to what you are writing about .