Care home work

[Jessicahop2832]

I've just started a job in a care home and although I don't mind the work (I don't love it but it pays well and gives me consistent hours and isn't insanely boring like retail - which I just quit) it's not a very glamorous job (which I also don't care) but I'm embarrassed telling people what I do... I'm young and it's not 'cool' to do a job that involves feeding people and wiping them etc. and although I don't care about being cool or not, I feel like people my age will laugh or judge me for it. I've lied to a few people including guys who have asked me out... I know it's bad but I can't help it. How can I stop being so embarrassed about it? And just tell the truth and not be ashamed?

You shouldn't be embarrassed because it is a very important and worthwhile job and what you do can make a massive difference to the lives of the people you are caring for. If anyone decides they don't like you or laugh at you because of it they truly aren't the sort of person you want in your life. Please don't be embarrassed.

I was a care for afew years from the age of 19-24.

It never entered my head to be embarrassed.

You do a job that alot of people cant do.

Is it because care assistant has such bad press? Or because it's so unglamorous ? Would you feel better saying your a nursing assistant? Or support worker?

Anybody who has ever had a friend or relative in a care/nursing home will KNOW that you do a worthwhile job and probably one they couldn't.

Be proud.

Care workers do a hugely important job and as a society we should we be embarrassed that we don't value it more in real terms. I think it's disgraceful that care workers are often on zero hour contracts, minimum wages, and no additional benefits.

Agree with Amy - anyone who has been involved with care will appreciate what you do. Not only do you enable people to enjoy life a bit longer, you enable their families to get on with their lives.

Total respect.

Please take pride in your job. I had carers in to look after my husband when he was dying and most of them were fabulous. They did the personal care I could not do and I am eternally grateful to them. You should be paid more, acknowledged more and respected. Do not be embarrassed at all.