Becoming a carer is one of the most rewarding career paths you can take in the UK. Whether you’re completely new to health and social care or looking to build on your existing experience, there are flexible and affordable training options that can help you get started, even if English isn’t your first language.
At The Learning College, many students come from overseas or have recently moved to the UK. Our courses are written in clear, easy-to-understand English, and our tutors provide 1-to-1 support throughout your studies, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to start a career in care.
Can I Be a Carer With No Experience?
Yes, you can! Many people begin their careers in care with no formal experience. What matters most is having the right attitude: compassion, patience, and a genuine desire to help others.
To strengthen your application and improve your confidence, completing an accredited qualification is highly recommended. The TQUK Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate is an excellent place to start. It’s designed for beginners, has no specific entry requirements, and can be studied entirely online with tutor support and flexible monthly payments (under £50 per month).
How Do I Start Being a Carer?
Here are the main steps to becoming a carer in the UK:
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Complete a recognised qualification – For entry-level roles, the TQUK Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate provides the essential knowledge you’ll need.
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Gain practical experience – Once you have your qualification, you can apply for roles in care homes, home care agencies, or NHS support roles.
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Register with a care employer or agency – Some roles may require you to complete a DBS (background) check.
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Continue professional development – As you progress, you can move into more advanced qualifications like the CACHE Level 3 Award in Health and Social Care (RQF).
How Long Does It Take to Train to Be a Carer?
Most students complete their initial qualification within 3 to 6 months, but you’ll have up to 12 months of study time to finish.
Both the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate and the Level 3 Health and Social Care Award have an estimated learning time of around 180-350 hours, and can be completed as quickly as you need within that 12-month period.
Am I Too Old to Be a Carer?
Absolutely not. Care work attracts people of all ages. In fact, many carers begin their careers later in life after raising families or changing careers. As long as you’re 16 years old or above and have a basic understanding of literacy and numeracy, you can study either qualification.
Your life experience can actually make you an even better carer — empathy, communication, and patience often come naturally with age.
How Much Do Carers Get Paid Per Hour in the UK?
Pay can vary depending on your role and experience. On average, carers in the UK earn between £11 and £15 per hour, with senior care workers or team leaders earning more.
Gaining recognised qualifications such as the CACHE Level 3 Award in Health and Social Care (RQF) can help you qualify for higher-paying positions and more responsibility within your role.
How Do I Officially Register as a Carer?
If you’re employed by a care provider, you don’t need to register independently — your employer will handle DBS checks and official registration requirements. However, if you plan to work self-employed (for example, offering private care in someone’s home), you may need to register with your local council or Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Having a recognised qualification like the TQUK Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate will make this process easier and show clients you’re professionally trained.
What Is the Difference Between a Caregiver and a Care Worker?
The terms are often used interchangeably in the UK. However:
Care Worker: This usually refers to someone employed by a care home, agency, or the NHS.
Caregiver: This often describes someone providing care more personally, such as in a home setting.
Both roles require similar skills, compassion, and dedication and both can begin with the same qualifications from The Learning College.
Why Choose The Learning College?
At The Learning College, our goal is to make care training accessible for everyone — no matter your background, location, or previous experience.
✅ Affordable – Courses cost less than £50 per month
✅ Flexible – Study from home at your own pace (up to 12 months)
✅ Supported – 1-to-1 tutor guidance throughout your learning journey
✅ Accredited – Recognised qualifications from CACHE and TQUK
Start today with one of our most popular online care courses:
TQUK Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate– Ideal for beginners
CACHE Level 3 Award in Health and Social Care (RQF)– Perfect for those who want to progress further in their career
Ready to Start Your Career in Care?
Whether you’re starting from scratch, changing careers, or new to the UK, becoming a qualified carer is simpler than you might think. With flexible study, affordable payments, and full tutor support, The Learning College helps you take your first step towards a rewarding new career in health and social care.
