How To Become An HCA In The UK

It can be quite tricky to get into the healthcare industry without a degree, especially when you’re not a UK national.  This can be discouraging, especially when you have a dream in your heart that leads you to care for people and heal. However, you can work in the healthcare industry without a degree, or even healthcare experience (in some cases). Find out how to become an HCA (healthcare assistant) if you’re not from the UK, the qualifications you need, your career outlook, roles and responsibilities, and what your life as a healthcare assistant (HCA) could look like in the UK.

What Do HCAs Do?

Healthcare assistants are responsible for helping take care of patients. They perform duties such as helping to feed, wash, dress, administer medication, and assist with mobility. They also take vital signs, including taking pulses, temperatures, blood pressure, etc. On the more practical side of things, they help set up equipment and ensure its hygiene, prepare meals, housekeep, and manage patient surroundings. Perhaps most importantly, they are there for emotional support, listening to and reassuring patients. 

Clinically, they sometimes excitingly assist with patient procedures, like preparing patients for examinations, collecting samples, and supporting minor procedures. Plus, they help to maintain patient records, record observations, and report changes to nurses and doctors. In addition, they may also answer phones, schedule appointments, and stock supplies.

What Qualifications Do You Need To Become An HCA?

Most facilities prefer their healthcare support workers to have level 2 (GCSEs or equivalent) or level 3 (A-levels or equivalent) qualifications, and some experience with caring for people. You can get these from vocational courses or college-level courses, such as those offered by The Open University or FutureLearn.

How To Get Relevant Experience To Become An HCA

According to the NHS, here are some of the things you could do to gain experience:

• Find a work experience placement
• Volunteer
• Part-time or full-time work caring
• A supported internship
• Caring for a sick or disabled friend

Here’s a video the NHS made specially to provide tips and tricks for starting your career at the NHS:

What Apprenticeships Do The NHS Have For HCAs?

The NHS have many apprenticeship offerings to get you on your way to becoming a healthcare assistant, such as:

• Maternity support worker
• Occupational therapy support worker
• Prosthetic technician
• Nursing associate
• Physician associate
• Occupational therapy support worker
• and many more

What If I’m Not From The UK?

Explore options like the Health and Care Worker visa or the Skilled Worker visa, ensuring you meet the criteria and secure sponsorship from a healthcare employer.

HCA Job Outlook

Healthcare Assistants are expected to grow massively, due to the ageing population and rise of chronic diseases in the United Kingdom. From being an HCA, you can progress to other formal training, such as a nurse apprenticeship. Also, the government and healthcare bodies are investing in HCA training and development, creating a more supportive environment for career growth.

Get excited to be an HCA! If you have at least a Level 2 qualification and some volunteering experience, you could be on your way toa career in healthcare in the UK! Apply with the link below for support in finding a job, at no cost to you.