Starting Out Strong: Your First Steps into a Career in Care
Starting your first job can feel like standing at the edge of something big – exciting, but also a little overwhelming. If you’re just leaving school, college, or university, you might be wondering: Where do I even begin?
If you’re someone who cares deeply about others, who wants to make a difference, and who’s looking for a career that means more than just a payslip – social care could be the perfect place to start.
Real advice from real people
To help you take that first step, we’ve launched a new video series: Care to Career. It’s designed especially for people like you – those who are new or returning to the world of work and want clear, honest guidance on how to apply for a role in care. Filmed at Briarscroft Residential Care Home, the first part of the series features Home Manager Hayley and some of her team members. Together, they break down everything from writing a CV to preparing for an interview.
No experience?
One of the most reassuring messages in the series is this: you don’t need previous experience to get started. What matters most are your values – such as kindness, reliability, and a willingness to learn.
As Hayley puts it:
“No care experience? You can still get hired if your CV shows two things: your values, and how you’ve used them in real life.”
That could be helping a neighbour, volunteering, or even supporting a friend or family member. These moments show who you are – and that’s what really counts.
Learning as you go
You don’t have to have it all figured out on day one. Sanctuary Care offers tailored training, coaching, and clear career pathways to help you grow. Whether you want to stay in hands-on care or move into leadership, there’s a place for you to thrive.
And the best part? You’ll be learning from people with incredible life stories – residents who’ve been teachers, artists, engineers, and more. Their wisdom will shape you in ways no classroom ever could.
Your journey starts here
The Care to Career series is just the beginning. It’s part of our commitment to making it easier for people like you to start a career in care – one that’s full of purpose, connection, and growth.
We believe in shaping a future that feels fair, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity. A place where your ideas matter, where doing the right thing isn’t just expected – it’s celebrated. Where progress isn’t just about careers, but about communities and the world we share.
So if you’re ready to take that first step, we’re ready to walk it with you.
Your next move could change lives – including your own.
