Caring is a two way street in that not only does the client get to choose their carer, but the carer also gets to choose the client.
On your training course you will have been asked to elaborate on your strong points, the positive things that you will 'bring to the table' at a new client. Basically you will be able to sell yourself as best you can in order for a prospective client to choose you as carer.
The flip side of this coin is that you should think about what it is you want in a client. Try to be realistic here! Purely because someone needs a carer means that they have physical or mental issues. The perfect client does not exist! Perhaps you may find the perfect client when applying for a job as Companion or Assistant, but caring – and in particular live in care – will not provide the 'perfect client'.
When you think about your perfect client you should first look at yourself.
Health Issues. What, if any health issues do you have? If you suffer from asthma you will definitely not want to go to a client who smokes. This will make your life a misery and jeopardise your own health. You might even have to leave the client because you are unwell. Are you allergic to dogs or cats? If so, then this is another criteria that you must consider. Many people in the UK have dogs that will need to be taken care of.
Male or Female. Some people have an aversion to working with a person of the opposite sex and this is a very personal point of view. You should ask yourself why you have this aversion. If there is no answer then perhaps it is a good idea to try one trip with someone of the opposite sex and approach with an open mind. See how things work out, you might be very surprised!
Old or Young. You might genuinely prefer to work with older people rather than with younger people. Perhaps you feel you have an affinity with elder people and not with younger people or perhaps the thought of being with an older person who is frail alarms you. Either way, ask yourself why you would or would not choose a particular age group.
Client Routine. You will always be told as much about your client as possible. If the client is bed bound of uses a wheelchair, you may feel that this is a position that would not suit you. Perhaps you do not think that you are skilled enough to handle this. Maybe hoisting is not something that you are not confident doing. You should make a list of issues such as these that you will not feel happy with.
When you have compiled your list take some time to go over it again. Ask yourself if all the points on it are actually good, solid points, grounded firmly on good reasons.
It is a good idea to ensure that your company knows your own criteria for working. A point to consider here is that by having a list as long as your arm on who you will not work for, you are in fact cutting down the options for yourself so be aware that while refusing a client for health reasons is a good idea, declining someone for another reason may be detrimental to you.
