Working in Live-in Care
By becoming a live-in carer, you provide homecare assistance, from daily tasks to basic medical care, that enables someone living with an illness or disability to stay comfortably in their own home.
Many travellers choose live-in care jobs for an immersive UK experience, high wages with low expenses, free accommodation, and the ability to earn enough to finance future travel in a short time.
The Perks
Free Meals & Housing
All of your meals and your accommodation will be provided for you during your stay.Quick Savings for Travel
With low living expenses and plenty of work hours, you can save a lot in a short period.Genuine UK Experience
Learn what daily life is like by living with a UK resident instead of living as a tourist.Rewarding Work
Help someone who needs you, and make a new friend along the way.What to Expect
Free Training
Some organisations offer free training. This can be very helpful to hit the ground running because you will become familiar with your client’s needs and learn how you can best help them. During this time, your employer or agency will likely cover your accommodations.
Save up to £525 to £802 Per Week
The exact pay rates you’ll earn as a carer in the UK depend on your employer, responsibilities, and time commitment. One huge benefit of live-in work is that your food and accommodation are often part of the arrangement. This means your ability to save is excellent. In dollar terms, this is equivalent to between $35,000 and $53,000 per year assuming you work 48 weeks a year.
Short to Long-Term Stays
There are various live-in care programs with a wide range of clients who have different needs. You may prefer an arrangement that allows you to work 3 weeks, then take 1 week off, work for 3 months straight, or commit to a longer period.
Scheduled Free Time
As a live-in carer, you will live with your client 24 hours a day, 7 days per week with a a minimum stay of 3 weeks or 2 weeks depending on the agreement.
Exactly how much free time you’ll have and when will depend on your client’s preferences or schedule.
For instance, if you work with an early riser, your free time may start in the afternoon. Conversely, if your client prefers late dinners, your free time may start at night.
Daily Responsibilities
These include cooking, cleaning, running errands, and providing specified care for your client. Being able to drive is often a requirement. Having a driver’s license from overseas can be a huge advantage but is not always necessary. You will also often find that most cars in the UK are manual, not automatic.
Minimal Expenses
Your accommodation and meals will normally be part of the arrangement. You can use your earnings to save up for travel or enjoy your free time!
Making a Difference
Live-in care can be very rewarding. You will have the opportunity to build a relationship with someone who needs you. Not only will you help with the likes of errands, but you will also lend emotional support and become a valuable companion. Clients will benefit from your help and you’ll benefit from their knowledge about the UK, as well as their friendship.
Table of Contents
FAQs
Answers to some questions you might have
Who is an ideal candidate?
While prior nursing or medical experience is not required, backgrounds in fields like nursing or first-hand caregiving experience are considered ideal. You should be comfortable with cooking and cleaning, and the ability to drive is a plus. The most essential requirement is that you’re ready and willing to provide round-the-clock care for someone who needs you.
Live-in carers can qualify for the Health and Care Worker visa in the UK, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. To qualify, live-in carers must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who is licensed by the Home Office and provides a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Do I need a UK driving license?
Being able to drive in the UK is a huge plus. You can drive without a UK driving license for up to 12 months if you have a license from a country outside the EU. If you have a driving license from an EU country, you can drive as long as your license is valid. Read more
How old do I have to be?
Many live-in care agencies require participants to be 21, but some accept candidates who are 18 and older. Various agencies will post on job boards, so you’ll find the right fit even if you’re under 21.
How much will I get paid?
Wages depend on the level of care your client needs and the number of hours you work. Generally, you can expect to be paid £525 to £802 per week. You’ll likely have very few living expenses since your meals and accommodations are covered. Remember to convert the British Pound into your local currency—you’ll probably be pleasantly surprised.
What kind of training will I need?
As of the moment, there is no official requirement or specific education needed to become a live-in carer but relevant training could include like first aid skills.
If you have experience in a nursing home, as a nurse, or as a residential carer, you may not need further training. However, if you want to become a support worker in residential care, some agencies offer a week of free training. Most agencies will cover the cost of your accommodation during this time. At the end of the training, you will usually also have a job!
What documents do I need to apply?
Before you arrive, you should take steps to make sure that you’re eligible to work in the UK and will likely undergo a DBS check after arrival in the UK. Be expected to provide your CV with work history, education and references.
How long will my live-in care job last?
This varies based on your position and travel plans. Some carers enjoy working for 3 to 6 months or longer to finance their travel, while others prefer to work every few weeks on and off and travel during their breaks. One of the great advantages of carer jobs is the flexibility, enabling you to travel and save money when you need it.
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