Healthcare assistants (HCAs) and support workers are at the heart of patient care in the NHS, providing essential hands-on support to patients and helping to make their hospital or care experience as comfortable and safe as possible. Working closely with nurses, midwives, therapists, and other healthcare professionals, HCAs and support workers deliver personal care, assist with daily activities, and support patients with their physical and emotional needs.
These roles are varied and rewarding — you might help patients with mobility, hygiene, feeding, or simply provide companionship and reassurance. Whether in a hospital ward or another setting, HCAs and support workers play a vital role in improving patients’ wellbeing and quality of life.
If you’re compassionate, patient, and have a genuine desire to help others, this could be the perfect career for you. Good communication skills, reliability, and a caring attitude are essential. Many HCAs and support workers begin their careers with no formal healthcare qualifications and develop their skills through training and experience on the job.
There are also clear pathways for progression into nursing, therapy support roles, or specialist areas of care, making this an excellent starting point for a lifelong career in healthcare.
Want to find out more?
Discover the variety of roles and how to get started on the NHS Health Careers – Healthcare Assistant and Support Worker page.