While starting out as a care assistant can seem a bit intimidating, the training and support that you receive while working in Galway care assistant jobs will help you get started from the first day.
In short: Just starting out as a care assistant? New care assistants in Galway will start off with an induction session that covers the employer’s policies, the aspects of safeguarding that you need to know, infection control and the care plans that you will be using. Most of these roles will also require certificates such as Manual Handling, First Aid and SafeTalk. After the induction you will then start to shadow an experienced member of staff before being left to complete the care on your own. You will have the support of a supervisor or care coordinator and will have access to an out-of-hours number if you require any advice.
Initial Induction
Photo by Age Cymru on Unsplash
New recruits complete an initial induction which outlines all of the Employer’s policies and procedures. This includes information regarding safeguarding, infection control and use of care plans. The new recruit would complete this induction over several days and would visit a client alone within a few days of completing the induction.
Mandatory Certifications
The majority of care assistant jobs Galway will need the candidate to hold specific mandatory certifications, for example Manual Handling, First Aid and SafeTalk suicide awareness.
Shadowing and Mentoring
An example of your early days would be to shadow an experienced care assistant, allowing you to gain experience in a realistic and gradual manner.
For more on Care Assistant Jobs Galway take a look at https://www.caremark.ie/job-opportunities/care-assistant-jobs-galway/
Supervisory Support
Your supervisor or care coordinator will be available to speak with you throughout the working week. In addition to formal reviews with your supervisor, most care employers will provide an out-of-hours contact number should you require advice or guidance at a later time.
The training and support provided to new staff is comprehensive and you are never left to your own devices!
Related reading: The Emotional Intelligence Behind Great Home Care
FAQs
Do I need experience to become a care assistant?
Not always. Many home care employers take on people with no previous care experience, because the induction, certificates and shadowing are designed to bring new starters up to standard. Experience of looking after a relative, along with patience and reliability, often counts for as much as a care CV.
What is SafeTalk training?
safeTALK is a short suicide alertness workshop, lasting around half a day, developed by LivingWorks. It teaches people to notice when someone may be thinking about suicide, to ask them directly and to connect them with someone who can help. In Ireland it is widely offered through the HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention.
Is a driving licence needed for home care work?
For home care, where you visit clients in their own homes, a full licence and access to a car are often required, particularly outside the city. Check the job advert, as some roles cover a small area or a single setting where you will not need to drive.