At a Glance
- Tasks: Support residents with personal care and build meaningful relationships.
- Company: Join EQ Care Group, a compassionate provider of elderly care.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, birthday leave, and free meals on shift.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while having fun at work.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a caring attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 29080 - 33839 £ per year.
Cedar Lodge Care Home, Whitchurch on Thames
8am - 8pm Days, 8pm - 8am Nights
£29,080 to £33,839 per annum (pro rata) Dependent on experience
44 hours per week to include alternate weekends - bank hours available
Role Overview
Do you want to be part of something special? Do you want the flexibility of working hours to suit the needs of your family? Or would you much prefer a better work/life balance? Do you want to belong to an organisation that cares about YOU? If you answered Yes, then what are you waiting for? Apply today!
As a Care Companion at Cedar Lodge, you will be placed at the heart of the home along with the people that live here. We know that if you’re ok, the people who live here will be ok too – so ensuring you have fun is important! We want you to sit with people and eat meals and we want for you to build relationships with the amazing people we support.
Responsibilities and Duties
- To support people with intimate washing/drying, how they wish to be dressed and presented, including shaving, hair style, nails, teeth.
- Represent the Cedar Lodge brand by maintaining a professional and welcoming presence for all team members, residents, and visitors.
- Attend and actively contribute to team meetings.
- Perform any additional duties as assigned by the Home Manager to support the overall functioning of the home.
Skills, Qualifications and Abilities
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience within a similar environment desirable.
- You need to be flexible, patient, with a ‘can do’ caring attitude, and a real 'people person'.
- Proficiency in IT, including Microsoft Office and internal applications; with the ability to learn new systems quickly.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being self-motivated and capable of working independently.
The Company and Care Home
EQ Care Group is a trusted provider of exceptional elderly care, dedicated to creating warm, compassionate environments where individuals can truly thrive. Operating for three years now, we currently have five homes, with more being built to expand our portfolio. We specialise in delivering high-quality care to those who need it most, with a focus on dementia care and other complex needs. Our approach goes beyond simply meeting physical needs—we strive to create meaningful, enriching experiences for the people living in our homes. What sets us apart is our commitment to emotional intelligence, compassionate service, and personalised care.
Cedar Lodge opened in July 2025; a 45-bed nursing and dementia specialist care home in the heart of Whitchurch-on-Thames, combines modern comfort with classic charm, offering a welcoming home for people who need care & support. With spacious en-suite bedrooms, spectacular communal areas, and beautiful gardens, Cedar Lodge is a place to live well and thrive. We are looking for people to join our heart-centred team who will provide exceptional, personalised care, ensuring everyone feels valued, supported, and at home at Cedar Lodge.
Benefits of working at EQ Care
- ½ day off for your birthday – start your celebrations early!
- Blue Light Discount Card – access exclusive savings and offers.
- 28 days of annual leave (pro rata) – enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
- Salary advance scheme (Level) – access earned pay when you need it.
- Contributory pension – helping you plan for your future.
- Dedicated Learning & Development – continuous training and career growth opportunities.
- Team member rewards – recognising and celebrating your hard work.
- Free meals on shift – enjoy a meal on us while you work.
- Free tax review service – making sure you keep more of what you earn.
- Refer a friend scheme – earn up to £500 for successful referrals! (Terms apply)
Please note: If you are not a UK resident, you must already have the legal right to work in the UK, with at least 14 months remaining on your visa. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship.
This job description may differ as new information technology, policies and contractual agreements change, and we reserve the right to vary duties without notice.
Hours: 44 hours per week
Contract type: Permanent
Location: Cedar Lodge Care Home, Whitchurch on Thames
Care Assistant (Care Companion) in Reading employer: EQ Care
Contact Detail:
EQ Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Care Assistant (Care Companion) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out Cedar Lodge's website and social media. Understanding their values will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their heart-centred approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Care Companion, you'll need to be a people person. Try role-playing common scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence and ensure you can express your caring attitude effectively during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your experiences! Think about times when you've demonstrated flexibility, patience, or teamwork. These stories will help you stand out and show that you have what it takes to thrive at Cedar Lodge.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Cedar Lodge team. Don’t wait too long—get your application in today!
We think you need these skills to ace Care Assistant (Care Companion) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself!: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through. We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your passion for caring and your unique approach to supporting others.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Mention any previous roles in care or similar environments, and how they’ve prepared you for this position at Cedar Lodge.
Show Your Communication Skills: Since strong verbal and written communication skills are key for this role, ensure your application is clear and well-structured. Use simple language and keep it professional, but don’t forget to add a touch of warmth!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at EQ Care
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Care Assistant at Cedar Lodge. Familiarise yourself with the tasks like supporting residents with personal care and building relationships. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Care Companion, being a 'people person' is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully built rapport with others or provided compassionate care. This will highlight your suitability for the role and show that you align with Cedar Lodge's values.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Flexibility
Cedar Lodge values flexibility in working hours. Be prepared to discuss your availability and how you can adapt to the needs of the home. This shows that you're committed to providing the best care possible while balancing your own life.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about team dynamics, training opportunities, or how Cedar Lodge supports its staff. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.