Health Care Assistant

You’ve Been Caring Your Whole Life – Why Not Make It a Career

Did you know that you don’t need qualifications or previous experience to start a career in care – what you do need though is a kind heart, compassion, patience and the ability to treat others with empathy and dignity.

Maybe you’ve raised your children and they’ve now flown the nest, but you still have that natural instinct to nurture and care for others. Maybe you’ve looked after a loved one before, like an elderly grandparent, or maybe you simply enjoy being there for people when they’re in need. That’s exactly the kind of person we’re looking for.

Supporting People on Complex Journeys

Working at Heanton Nursing Home means supporting older adults who often have complex needs, whether physical, emotional or cognitive. While some residents may enjoy simple moments of connection – sharing a cup of tea, enjoying a meal together or going for a short walk, many require attentive, thoughtful support throughout the day.

It’s not just about being present, it’s about using your training, awareness and empathy to truly understand each person and what they need. When someone shows signs of distress, perhaps becoming confused, upset or angry, it’s not \”challenging behaviour\” – it’s communication. We take the time to look deeper, what’s happening in the environment for example, is it a sound, a smell, the lighting, the TV, or a change in routine that’s affecting them? By working in a person‑centred way, we respond with understanding, not frustration, because once we understand the why, we can support in a way that really makes a difference. Everyone deserves to be valued and supported—and that’s what makes the work we do so meaningful.

Personal Care that Respects Independence and Choice

Others may need more involved support with their daily routines. This includes personal care – helping someone get dressed, supporting them with bathroom visits, encouraging and supporting with washing and bathing. These moments are just as important as a friendly conversation, and they’re always approached with patience, compassion and a focus on preserving each person’s dignity and independence.

Computer Skills

Basic computer skills are important in this role, but don’t worry—we’ll teach you everything you need to know. Part of your day will involve using a computer or tablet to record daily notes about the people you support. These records are a vital part of their care to ensure each person’s overall wellbeing is always at the heart of what we do. It’s not about writing long reports—it’s about observing the small details that make a big difference in someone’s day.

How we Support you

Heanton Nursing Home is in the heart of Heanton Punchardon near Barnstaple and Bideford and offers an ever‑continuing support network which starts at application stage where we start with a phone call then video call to talk you through the job and what to expect when working in a care home. Then you have a 12 week induction programme, a buddy system so you are never alone, continuous learning and development through different forms of training and a welfare team who are available 24/7 via telephone – you really are never alone when working with us!

Benefits:

• Paid breaks
• Complementary meals
• Select Bank Holidays Qualify for Enhanced Pay
• Young workers (18+) are paid the same as those aged 25+
• Blue Light card eligibility (access to discounts at hundreds of high street & online retailers)
• Free DBS
• Unlimited access to our Refer a Friend bonus voucher scheme – £50 each
• Full‑time, part‑time and bank hours offered
• Automatic enrolment on to our pension scheme
• CPD accredited training programme delivered by the home’s Care Academy
• NVQ part funded support
• 12 weeks induction programme with support from an assigned Mentor
• Career opportunities
• A 24/7 specialist welfare help line for guidance & support

If you would like to know more about working in care and the training and career path we can offer, then please apply today.

Does the job role include personal care?: Yes

Working Patterns:

You will be working 12 hour shifts – 3 times per week on a 36 hour contract. There will be weekend work but this will be every other weekend.