That’s right… care and support jobs can be flexible!

Care and support is 24/7 - so you might think that all jobs require long hours and perhaps aren’t that flexible. That's not the case, which is excellent news for job seekers that want positions to fit around their lives. Since people's needs and care setting requirements differ, there are all kinds of jobs available with varying time commitments. 

With that in mind, we're taking a closer look at the job contracts you'll find in the care and support sector. From full-time work to positions that are more ad hoc, we explain what's available. Plus, we explore the benefits of each one and who they might suit. 

Types of Care and Support Work Contracts

Many care and support roles involve shifts. It often means working for a set number of hours on specified days but with varying start and finish times. How many shifts you do and the number of hours in your shift depends on your contract type. Let's look at the possible options. 

Full-time Roles

Full-time roles involve a considerable commitment. You'll usually work four or five days a week on consecutive days or with varying rest days. A full time contract will specify the shift length, but it can range from eight to 12 hours. 

If you're looking for work and you don't have other major commitments to plan around, then a full-time contract could suit you. More hours means your annual salary will be larger, which is one of the most significant benefits of this contract type. Many care roles have full-time contracts, so finding a position isn't too challenging. 

Part-time Work

Not all people who need care require support all day, every day. On top of that, care settings are usually made up of a team of people, which means shorter shifts are available to fill in the gaps. For those reasons, there are plenty of part-time care and support jobs available. 

These roles might require you to work just a few days a week or to complete shorter shifts over several days. Since you'll find both options out there, you can choose a contract type that suits you. People who have other caring commitments, including young children, or those who are studying will benefit from these roles. 

Bank Contracts

Many care settings rely on bank or relief staff. It means you pick up shifts as required, but don't have a fixed number of hours each week. These roles are vital to maintaining standards of care. 

Bank staff are just as skilled as full-time workers. It's just that they provide their services on a flexible basis. This option is ideal for anyone who has limited working hours available. It can work around childcare, studies and other commitments. You can find bank contracts in all care and support settings including care homes, supported living and providing care in a person’s own home. 

Weekend-Only Roles

Although many full-time contracts include working any day of the week, you can also find care and support jobs for the weekend only. Like bank staff, these roles help cover gaps. However, they have fixed schedules and working hours. 

Weekend-only roles are a form of part-time work. You'll usually be part of a team, so communication is key. They are convenient options for people who are studying during the week or that have limited hours available Monday to Friday. While these roles aren't as common as full-time contracts, there are plenty of people who need to keep their weekends free, so it's relatively easy to find a position. 

Flexible Working Patterns

Care and support work can be the ideal choice for someone who needs flexibility. At different stages in your life, you might need to balance other commitments, including studying and care. Fortunately, this sector has a range of contracts and working hours to suit various needs. 

For those who have more time and want a stable and larger income, full-time roles are the answer. Anyone needing to balance commitments or other limits has a choice of part-time, weekend-only and bank roles to choose from to strike the right balance while continuing to work. 

Can't find the flexibility you need in job adverts? Our top tip - contact the care provider directly and explain the hours you're looking to work. In our experience, many providers will consider various options if you have the right skills and motivation to do a good job. Good luck with your search!