Navigating healthcare assistant courses in the UK

Do you want to become a healthcare assistant (HCA)? Healthcare assistant courses can pave the way for your success.

Being a healthcare assistant in the UK is a great job that . Healthcare assistants (HCAs) are a vital part of the nursing team at hospitals and surgeries. They help doctors and nurses take care of patients in all sorts of medical areas.

These assistants aren't just in hospitals! They can be found helping in prisons, schools, mental health centres and places for people with learning disabilities. They work with nurses and care for people of all ages, from babies to older folks.

To be a successful HCA, you need proper training and supervision and your employer has to make sure you get that. Different regions of the UK have their own HCA standards and training guidelines on lots of different topics.

If you like helping people, want to start in healthcare, or just want to make a real difference in lives, being a healthcare assistant is a great choice that will reward you and change you for the better. Equip yourself with the essential skills and knowledge with the help of healthcare assistant courses in the UK.

What is a healthcare assistant?

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You might hear HCAs called different names, like nursing assistants, carers, or even support workers. In hospitals, "HCA" is their official title, but in homes or social care, "carer" or "support worker" might be their nickname.

do many different tasks. They work alongside nurses and doctors, making things as comfortable as possible for patients:

  • Helping with everyday tasks like washing, dressing and preparing meals.
  • Offering a kind word or a helpful hand when someone's feeling down.
  • Making sure everyone feels respected and cared for, no matter how complicated things get.

These tasks might seem simple, but they're the hidden foundation of good healthcare. HCAs play a vital role in keeping things running smoothly and helping people stay confident and independent.

Responsibilities of a healthcare assistant

As a healthcare assistant in the UK, you play a vital role in supporting both medical professionals and patients in hospitals, GP surgeries, or within the community. Your tasks are assigned and overseen by trained nurses who work alongside you to offer the best care and assistance to patients and their families.

Here are some of the everyday responsibilities you might have

1.

Keeping equipment clean and maintaining a tidy environment in different areas.

2.

Making beds for patients on a hospital ward.

3.

Assisting patients with their needs, such as helping them use the bathroom, emptying bedpans, or aiding them with washing.

4.

Taking basic measurements like temperature and blood pressure and recording this information.

5.

Supporting patients with limited mobility, possibly by taking them for a short walk.

6.

Listening to patients attentively and providing compassionate support.

HCAs working in hospitals or community NHS settings often receive extra training. This additional training might involve learning to take more detailed measurements like a patient's respiratory rate, blood oxygen level and pulse. Some may also learn procedures such as drawing blood (venepuncture), administering immunisations and performing bladder catheterisation.

Qualifications to become a healthcare assistant in the UK

There aren't strict qualifications required to become a healthcare assistant in the UK, but having good skills in reading, writing and mathematics is essential. Some employers may ask for GCSEs (or equivalent qualifications) in English and maths.

Having qualifications in healthcare can be very helpful and make your transition into the sector easier. Beneficial healthcare assistant courses in the UK to consider include:

  • BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year in Health and Care
  • BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Social Care with Foundation Year
  • BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Social Care (Level 6 direct entry route)
  • HND in Healthcare Practice for England (Healthcare Management)

The above healthcare assistant courses in the UK, which are offered by Global Banking School (GBS), are designed for those who are new to the healthcare field. These healthcare assistant courses in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds give a broad understanding of how to assist patients of different ages and with various medical needs.

Once you're hired, you'll receive training while working. This will cover essential nursing skills and guidance to achieve your Care Certificate. The Care Certificate, introduced in 2015 as a response to the Cavendish Review, was created by Skills for Care, Skills for Health and Health Education England to meet specific standards in healthcare training.

Steps to become a healthcare assistant in the UK

Becoming a healthcare assistant can help you create a difference and help people in their times of need. But before you jump in, let's take a step-by-step look at how to navigate this rewarding path.

  1. Consider the necessary skills: HCAs need plenty of patience, calmness and hard work. Ask yourself if working as a healthcare assistant aligns with your career goals.
  1. Education essentials: Although there's no fixed qualification needed, having GCSEs in maths and English is preferred by employers. Additionally, healthcare assistant courses in the UK can give you a head start. GBS offers healthcare assistant courses in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds for students who wish to prosper in their careers.
  1. Find your niche: Reflect on the work environment you prefer. Hospitals, care homes, wards for children, disability support – the options are endless. Choose an environment that sparks your passion.
  1. Get hands-on experience: Volunteer with patients, children, or the elderly. Look for NHS or private sector apprenticeships – every bit of experience counts. Gaining experience in the field will enhance your chances of securing an HCA position.
  1. Polish your resume and ace the interviews: Highlight your healthcare experience and skills. Research the healthcare setting you're applying to and showcase your passion.
  1. Once you're In, level up: Once hired, focus on obtaining your Care Certificate. Seek letters of recommendation from your supervisors and actively participate in any career advancement opportunities available to you.

*Bonus tip: Keep in mind that salary and benefits can vary depending on your employer and location. Do your research and negotiate with confidence.

Pursue healthcare assistant courses in the UK with Global Banking School (GBS)

GBS is one of the leading higher education institutions in the UK, known for its industry-specific courses in fields such as finance, health, education, business and more. With a presence in the UK’s major cities, the institution is dedicated to its mission of “changing lives through education”.

Healthcare assistant courses in London, Manchester and other UK cities by GBS

There's a growing need for healthcare management experts. Employers seek individuals with a blend of specialised healthcare understanding and strong managerial skills. GBS healthcare assistant courses in the UK are tailored precisely for this purpose – to cultivate both aspects and provide you with practical, real-world skills essential for a thriving management career in healthcare.

1. BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year

The health and social care degree spans four years and is conducted in collaboration with Leeds Trinity University. The healthcare assistant course in London – Canary Wharf, London – Greenford, Birmingham and Manchester offers you the opportunity to begin your studies with an introductory foundation year. This initial year focuses on enhancing your academic abilities and building your confidence. Following this, students will progress to study a mix of essential and elective modules throughout the rest of their course.

2. BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Social Care with Foundation Year

Healthcare is evolving rapidly, especially in the present times. Our BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Social Care course, including the foundation year, prepares you to stay ahead of these changes. The healthcare assistant course in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds equips you with the adaptability required to succeed in a constantly evolving sector.

3. BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Social Care (Level 6 direct entry route)

As healthcare progresses, your skills and knowledge need to evolve too. The level 6 direct entry route offers a specialised way to attain a complete BSc (Hons) qualification in health, wellbeing and social Care. The healthcare assistant course in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds significantly expands your personal and professional opportunities within just one year of study.

4. HND in Healthcare Practice for England (Healthcare Management)

The rapidly changing healthcare field is among the UK's biggest job sectors, seeking skilled and proactive professionals. The healthcare assistant course in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds offers a pathway for those with a strong passion for aiding others to pursue a fulfilling career in this field.

Frequently asked questions about healthcare assistant courses

Follow these steps to become a healthcare assistant:

  • Gain the necessary skills
  • Pursue healthcare assistant courses in the UK
  • Find your niche
  • Get hands-on experience
  • Prepare your resume
  • Obtain your Care Certificate

GBS offers some of the best healthcare assistant courses in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds such as BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year in Health and Care, BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Social Care with Foundation Year, BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing and Social Care (Level 6 direct entry route) and HND in Healthcare Practice for England (Healthcare Management). To know more about the courses, contact the student support team.

A healthcare assistant diploma is a structured course designed to provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as an HCA. The diploma typically includes both theoretical learning and practical training, preparing you to effectively assist and support patients under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals.

The duration of a healthcare assistant course in the UK can vary depending on the type of course and the institution offering it. Typically, these courses can range from a few months to a year or more. For instance, the duration of BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care with Foundation Year in Health and Care offered by GBS is four years.

You can pursue a healthcare assistant course in London at GBS, where the institution offers comprehensive courses designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become proficient HCAs. GBS provides a supportive learning environment with experienced instructors and hands-on training opportunities, ensuring that you gain the valuable expertise required for a successful career in healthcare assistance. Want to enrol? Contact us now.