Healthcare assistant

Healthcare assistants look after patients in hospitals and other care settings, including people's homes. They help with personal care, check basic observations and support patients with eating and moving.

These are approximate UK figures for guidance only, not guaranteed salaries. Pay varies by employer, location and experience. Source: National Careers Service, checked November 2026 (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/healthcare-assistant).

1. Build communication skills and explore care work
2. Consider a college course or healthcare volunteering
3. Apply for a trainee role or Level 2 or 3 apprenticeship
4. Complete workplace training and build experience

You don't usually need a degree. College options include health and social care and a T Level in Health; many courses include placements. T Levels usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 including English and maths, or equivalent. The National Careers Service lists the Healthcare Support Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship and the Senior Healthcare Support Worker Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. You could also start as a trainee care assistant while working towards a qualification, and NHS volunteering can help you get experience. Enhanced background checks are required.

Routes vary. Always check entry requirements with course providers, employers and the relevant professional body.

Not usually required

Main routes in: GCSE, T Levels, Apprenticeship, Other routes.

• English
• Maths
• Biology
• Health and social care

• Sensitivity and understanding
• Clear communication
• Teamwork
• Patience
• Attention to detail
• Working under pressure
• Basic computer skills

• Hospitals
• Home care
• Care homes
• Hospices

Your day could include helping patients wash, dress and eat, using equipment to move people safely, and checking temperature, pulse and breathing. You also reassure patients, clean work areas and work closely with nurses and other healthcare staff. Work may be in a hospital, someone's home, a care home or a hospice, usually in uniform. The National Careers Service lists 37 to 40 hours a week, with evenings, weekends and bank holidays on a rota possible.

With training you could become an assistant practitioner in areas such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, radiography or podiatry. You could also apply to train as a nurse, radiographer, dietitian or midwife.