The role of a live-in carer in the United Kingdom is a demanding yet rewarding profession that involves providing round-the-clock care and support to individuals who need assistance due to illness, disability, or old age. While the job can be immensely fulfilling, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of being a live-in carer in the UK.

Pros of being a live-in carer

Job satisfaction

As a live-in carer, your role is to support someone in need. You have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable individuals and their families. This comes with a sense of purpose and fulfilment that you don’t often get in many other careers. 

Variety  

As a live-in carer, no two days are the same. You will have set duties to perform for your client around the home but your daily routine will change depending on what your client has got scheduled for that day. This could be anything from driving your client to town for a haircut to chatting over a cup of tea or entertaining their friends and family at home. 

Stability

In a world with rapidly changing job markets, the demand for live-in carers remains consistent. As the UK’s population continues to age, the need for qualified caregivers is expected to grow, providing job stability and security.

Competitive salary

Live-in carers can earn good money, especially when you take into account that you won’t need to pay rent or bills of any kind. Depending on your hours, salaries can average around £500-£600 a week, even more in some cases. 

Training & development

Many employers in the UK offer training and professional development opportunities to live-in carers. This allows you to enhance your skills and knowledge in the field, improving your ability to provide top-quality care. It could also lead to recognised qualifications that will enhance your career progression.

Cons of being a live-in carer

A sense of selflessness

As a live-in carer your time will be concentrated on your client and their needs. You will often need to be available 24/7 and the hours can be long and draining. This means you won’t have much time for yourself to pursue your own interests. However, you will be able to set your own hours and breaks so if having time for yourself is important to you, make sure you write this into your contract.

Jack of all trades

When you are looking after somebody in their own home you will need to be able to multitask. This means you may need to triple up as a cook, cleaner, chauffeur, counsellor… whatever needs to be done to enable your client to live a more fulfilling life will fall under your remit. 

Ever the professional

As a live-in carer, you can’t get away from the fact that you are living in someone else’s home. That means you need to respect your client’s house rules and be professional at all times. It is not your place to invite your friends over, or smoke and drink in the home as if it was your own. 

Sense of isolation

Because a carer will spend so much time looking after one client, the job itself can be isolating, especially if you are caring for individuals in rural areas with limited access to social activities. Spending most of your time at a client’s home can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

Emotionally & physically demanding

Caring for individuals with complex medical conditions or severe disabilities can be emotionally and physically taxing. Witnessing their pain and suffering can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. Equally, building a strong relationship with a client can be wonderful but also emotionally draining when that relationship ends.

How do I become a live-in carer?

If you are considering a role as a live-in carer, it’s a good idea to do some research to make sure you have what you need to be a carer. If a position becomes available, take some time to fully understand what is involved in the role as your role and responsibilities can vary depending on your client, the agency who recruited you and your experience and expertise. If you would like further guidance on the pros and cons of being a live-in carer, then do chat to one of our advisers who will be happy to answer any of your questions.