A support worker in a charity helps vulnerable individuals or groups to improve their quality of life. This could include supporting people with disabilities, mental health issues, homelessness, addiction, or other challenges. The role involves providing practical and emotional support, helping clients access services, developing independent living skills, and sometimes advocating on their behalf. Support workers often work closely with social workers, healthcare professionals, and community groups to ensure holistic care for their clients. It can be a highly rewarding career for those with empathy, patience, and a passion for making a difference in people’s lives. Work hours can include evenings or weekends, depending on client needs.
Support workers in the charity sector in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £25,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
As of 2023, there are over 35,000 support worker roles advertised annually in the charity and voluntary sector across the UK.
More than 60 percent of charity support workers are employed by national or local non-profit organisations, with the remainder working in community projects, housing associations, or specialist charities.
Provides specialised assistance to individuals experiencing mental health challenges, helping them to access services, develop coping skills, and improve their wellbeing.
Works directly with people who are homeless, offering practical support, advocacy, and guidance to help them find accommodation and access other support services.
Supports children and young people who care for family members, helping them balance their caring responsibilities with education and personal development.
Learn about different types of charities and the kinds of support worker roles they offer.
Look for charities that work with causes you care about, such as housing, disability support, or youth services. Read job descriptions online or visit charity websites to understand what support workers do on a daily basis.
Gain experience by volunteering with a local charity or community group.
Volunteering is a great way to build relevant skills and show your commitment to helping others. Typical volunteer roles might include befriending, supporting events, or helping with outreach programmes. This experience will also help you decide if the role is right for you.
Some support worker roles require formal qualifications, such as a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care.
Many charities provide on-the-job training, but having a qualification can make you more competitive. Check courses at local colleges or apprenticeship opportunities in health and social care. Some roles may also require basic first aid or safeguarding training.
Build skills such as communication, empathy, and resilience.
These skills are essential for supporting people in challenging situations. You can develop them through volunteering, part-time work, or joining youth groups. Reflect on your experiences and consider how they have helped you learn to listen, solve problems, and support others.
Look for job vacancies with charities, care organisations, or local councils.
Use websites like CharityJob, NHS Jobs, and local council portals. Prepare a CV highlighting your volunteering, skills, and qualifications. Tailor your applications to show your passion for helping others and understanding of the charity's mission.
Get ready to discuss your experience and motivation in interviews.
Employers will want to know how you handle difficult situations, work with vulnerable people, and manage your own wellbeing. Practise common interview questions and think of examples from your volunteering or personal life that show your suitability for the role.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Support Worker (Charity). Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Support Worker (Charity) generally provides assistance and support to individuals with special needs or vulnerabilities, often working in care settings. Similarly, a Senior care worker offers more advanced support and responsibility in caring for vulnerable adults or children, sharing similar qualifications and skills in providing personal and emotional assistance.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a college course, which may help you when applying for more senior care jobs.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply to do a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, such as:
You might also train by doing a Lead Practitioner in Adult Care Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
These apprenticeships can take up to 2 years to complete and are a mix of workplace training and classroom study.
You'll usually need:
You could start as a care support worker or healthcare assistant and move into a senior role through further training and promotion.
You can get some of the skills and knowledge you need for this career by volunteering with an organisation that supports vulnerable people.
You can find volunteering opportunities through:
You can apply directly for senior care jobs if you have skills, experience and a qualification in social care or healthcare.
A caring personality is very important, as is a respectful attitude towards people who need care and support.
Time spent caring for someone you know also counts as having experience in a caring role.
You can find out more about careers in care from:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
