Many people recognise the value of adult social care. They understand the important role care professionals play in supporting people to live independently and helping communities thrive.
Yet new research from Bluebird Care suggests many people still don't see social care as a career for themselves.
Our new Care Index Report, Untapped Opportunities: Building Meaningful Careers in Social Care, explores why.
Drawing on nationally representative polling alongside insights from Bluebird Care colleagues across the UK, the report found that while 74.2% of people would be proud to tell others they worked in adult social care, only 31.8% said they would currently consider a career in the sector.
The findings suggest there is an opportunity to help more people understand what a career in care can offer.
A career with room to grow
One of the strongest themes to emerge from the Care Index is that many people are unaware of the opportunities available within social care.
The research found that 40.4% of people would consider a career in adult social care if there were clearer opportunities for career progression and professional development.
Across Bluebird Care, we see those opportunities every day.
Many of our colleagues joined as care assistants before progressing into roles including care coordinator, trainer, registered manager, care director and specialist positions. Others have developed expertise in areas such as dementia care, complex care and leadership through ongoing learning and professional development.
A career with purpose
Working in care is about supporting people to live the life they want in the place they know and love.
Every day is different. Whether you're helping someone remain independent at home, supporting a family through a difficult time or celebrating the small moments that matter, care offers work that is both rewarding and meaningful.
As Jonathan Gardner, Chief Executive Officer at Bluebird Care, says:
"The opportunity is enormous. A stronger care workforce means better support for people who need care, less pressure on the NHS, stronger communities and more people able to access work that is skilled, rewarding and full of purpose."
Could a career in care be right for you?
Whether you're starting your career, looking for a new direction or returning to work, social care offers opportunities to learn, develop new skills and build a long-term career.
At Bluebird Care, we're committed to helping our colleagues grow through high-quality training, recognised qualifications and support from experienced teams across our network.
If you're looking for a career where you can support others while continuing to develop yourself, we'd love to hear from you.
Explore our current vacancies and discover where a career with Bluebird Care could take you.
Read the full Care Index Report
Want to learn more about the future of careers in social care?
Our Care Index Report, Untapped Opportunities: Building Meaningful Careers in Social Care, explores the findings in more detail, including national polling, career stories from Bluebird Care colleagues and recommendations to help more people build long-term careers in care.
Download the full Care Index Report to explore the research and discover why social care offers more opportunities than many people realise.
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