• Would I be able to work flexible hours?
• What other benefits are there?
• If I work in residential care, is accommodation provided?
• How can I join UNISON?
• Am I subject to any pre-employment checks?

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Would I be able to work flexible hours?

Many jobs in social care, especially those in residential care, need people who can work flexible hours. You would need to check with your employer, but it should be possible for you to work part-time, or particular times, to fit around your own commitments. Ask about this when you apply for a job.

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What other benefits are there?

Individual employers may offer a range of benefits. For example, if you are working for a council you could be eligible for the Local Government Pension Scheme. Remember to ask individual employers for details.

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If I work in residential care, is accommodation provided?

It is much less common for residential care workers to live on site these days, although in some parts of the country employers are starting to re-introduce accommodation for staff. This is more usual in places where accommodation is expensive. Ask individual employers when you are applying for jobs.

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How can I join UNISON?

How can I join UNISON? Contact UNISON on 0845 355 0845 or download an information pack from their website (www.unison.org.uk)

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Am I subject to any pre-employment checks?

Social care workers help and support people who are in potentially vulnerable circumstances or are physically frail, and so need to be of the highest calibre and integrity. All applicants for such social care jobs must undergo pre-employment checks, which include potential employers requesting a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosure at enhanced level and potential employees supplying references. From 12th October 2009, the CRB disclosure will tell an employer whether a person has been barred by the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) from working with children or vulnerable adults.

From 26th July 2010, new appointments and job changers will be able to register with the Vetting and Barring Scheme, and from 1 November 2010, it will be compulsory to register. Registration means there is no known reason why a person is unsuitable to work with children or adults in vulnerable situations.

Further information is available on the website of the Independent Safeguarding Authority www.isa-gov.org.uk

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