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Live In Spain, Work In The UK The Best of Both Worlds?

22/06/2016

You're wondering if this is possible and whether it might work for you. It most definitely can work for you!
Live in care work is a very good way for you to earn money in the U.K. and still keep the lifestyle you have in Spain.

Here's How to Start

To apply for any live in care job you will need to complete an online application from the company. This will be followed up with a telephone interview to ascertain that you have fluent command of the English language. Questions such as previous care experience and availability will be asked, be prepared for these.

Once this has been completed you will be asked when you would like to do your training. Most companies will require training ranging from one day to two weeks. This is to ensure that you are in compliance with the CQC. (The Care Quality Commission who monitor, inspect and regulate health and social services)

You will need to book your flight and plan your trip to wherever you are doing your training.

www.skyscanner.com
www.thetrainline.com

These two sites will become invaluable to you! When you have booked your flight and ongoing trains, write the details down! Believe it or not, this will be a stressful time for you. Searching for travel information on scraps of paper is not what you need! Give yourself plenty of time for transfers. Most courses require you be on time, otherwise they will not let you start your training.

Now For Your Training

Things to take for your training course.

Work visa, if you need one
Updated CV
Two reference letters, originals and copies if possible.
Your drivers license.
A notebook and two pens.
Mobile phone....and charger
Laptop or tablet....and charger
Receipts of train tickets. (Most companies don't cover flights)
Directions from the station......ask this question! 

During your training you will meet other carers, all going through the course. It's a good idea to exchange contact details, you might one day need a friendly ear, or just a natter with another carer. 

Off To Work You Go

After your training comes your assignment. Sometimes this will be immediate. This depends on whether your DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check has been received, and whether your references have been contacted. Make sure all your references are available.

So....after this process, you're off to your client!

Your job will include taking care of someone, assisting with dressing, light housework, and cooking for yourself and your client. You may need to do the shopping. Sometimes a car is available for your use. Perhaps your client likes to be taken out to a pub or garden centre. 

Every client will have different needs, but every one of them will depend on you to be there when they need you.
You will become the lifeline to that person. Some days you will be the only other person they see so companionship will be important. 

You will be required to keep your paperwork in order and keep in touch with your company.

Questions You Should Ask

A good idea is to contact the outgoing carer, she is a vital source of information to you. A veritable goldmine!

Ask her about internet! This might be your only way of keeping in touch.
How far are you from a town? If you can't walk there on your break, make sure to take a book with you, and something to do in quiet time such as knitting. Whatever you need, you must pack.
Ask which station you would use and how you get from station to house. 

Travel light! Remember that you are the one dragging your bags across London, possibly using the miles of underground and hauling your belongings up and down stairs. 

Finally..

While live in care can be hard work, it is also extremely satisfying and rewarding in ways that you will not expect. 

Its also a wonderful opportunity to see different areas of England! The internet is great way to research things to see in your area. Make the most of your time off, take pictures, explore, have coffee, people watch. 

Before you know it, your assignment will be over, you'll head for the airport (be sure to have a very welcome glass of vino!) and you'll head back home for a welcome break!