Why More Men Are Embracing Careers in Care

When you picture a care environment and the people who work there, most people will imagine women. And yes - a large makeup of the employees in the sector are women. The latest research shows that men make up around 21% of the adult social care workforce in England. That figure is changing as we're seeing an increase in men in the sector. 

One of the challenges to a more balanced workforce is the stereotype that nurturing and caring roles are more suited to women. The truth is that there are plenty of opportunities for men in the sector when their strengths and skills are not only appreciated but needed. 

As these ideas become things of the past, there's a chance for more men to make a difference in care organisations. Let's explore the roles in care and support and what men can bring. 

Roles for Men in Care

The truth is that care involves a lot more than the roles that immediately spring to mind. There are multiple opportunities that provide a rewarding career in the sector. That means that different strengths, skills and perspectives are needed. 

Care settings rely on many people to function. Men can work in any of those roles and excel. There are many roles enjoyed by both men and women include Managers, Activities Coordinators, Drivers and Catering Staff. Many positions involve direct contact with the people being supported, but not all of them do. There's room for people who prefer to be behind the scenes - no matter who you are.

One of the key roles in our sector are Support Workers. These roles can vary from position to position but also from day to day so are excellent for those who like variety but also want to make a difference. 

It's about personal care and companionship, but it's also about practical matters, such as getting out and going to appointments. There's a social aspect, too, so you could be playing video games with the person you're supporting or helping them get back into their favourite sports, such as swimming, golf or cricket. As you can see from Disability Support Worker Ben McIntosh’s TikTok videos a role in care can take you to all sorts of places. While it is work, there's lots of fun involved too. 

What Men Bring to Care

Let’s cover the most important point before we look at what having more men in the care sector will do. Men are caring and they deserve to have satisfying, rewarding and fulfilling careers, which is what a role in the industry can bring. Communication skills, quick-thinking and compassion are all required skills that men can bring. 

When working with people, rapport and a good match are key to successful relationships. All sorts of people need support, and men might feel more comfortable with other men. Since companionship and social activities are involved, your hobbies and way of thinking can improve that rapport. Whether it's cooking, travel, football or fatherhood, having something in common with the person you support or your colleagues can enrich the overall experience. 

Improving the Workforce

As has become clear above, the care sector needs diversity. An increase in men in positions in the industry will improve the workforce. More than a watch word, diversity means that care settings will have a range of skills, experience and perspectives. These are needed to improve environments, solve problems, create a better atmosphere and increase efficiency overall. 

To achieve a more diverse workforce, the care sector needs more men. That way, it can better connect to the people being supported. Not everyone has to be an exact match, but it helps to have options and people with different skills and interests. It's a two-way street as relating to the person you're supporting provides as many benefits as them finding common ground with you. 

Diversity isn't the only way that more men in the care sector can improve the workforce. The care sector needs more people, so men with the required skills looking to get into care should find plenty of opportunities for work and also to progress. 

Consider a Role in Care

Working in care is fulfilling, fun and has excellent potential for a long and successful career. This rewarding career is suited to many different types of people, including men. The roles are varied, so you can find a job that suits your skill set and preferences. For those interested in support work, there's a lot to give and to gain that will transform the lives of the people supported and the care settings. 

A diverse workforce is a strong one. More men in the care industry will bring different perspectives, much-needed skills and will enable better matches for those needing support. Crucially, the number of vacancies will help you find a role to suit you and by joining the industry, you'll be thwarting the staff shortages that are at the heart of the crisis the sector is facing.

Our job board has many roles purely for men* - have a search today. 

*Male requirement exemption is claimed under the Equality Act 2010 Part 1 Schedule 9