Back to blogs
My Journey as a New Healthcare Assistant at Nurseplus
You might think that becoming a healthcare assistant takes a lot of work and endless medical training, but with Nurseplus, we open the door to a rewarding care career no matter what experience you have. We’ll provide you with all the tools you need to embark on a career in care, including industry-leading Mandatory Training, access to further learning and local support from a close-knit, caring community.
But don’t take our word for it. We sat down with one of our newest Healthcare Assistants based in Hastings, who wanted to share their experiences with us in the hopes of convincing more people to consider a career in care.
Read how they chose to become a healthcare assistant, and why they love the job so much.
“Starting a new career is always a mix of excitement and nerves and joining Nurseplus as a new healthcare assistant has been exactly that, but in the best way possible. I’ve only just begun my journey, but I already feel like I’m making a real difference."
Why did you choose to become a healthcare assistant?
"When I first looked into how to become a healthcare assistant, I wasn’t sure where to start. I didn’t have any formal medical training, but I did have a strong desire to help people and make a meaningful contribution to my community."
Did you need any qualifications to become a healthcare assistant?
"Becoming a healthcare assistant (HCA) is more accessible than many people think. I applied through Nurseplus, where they provided the necessary training and ongoing support. With their guidance, I completed a care certificate and began learning about personal care, safeguarding, infection control, and basic medical procedures. The support made it clear that this was a path anyone with compassion and dedication could follow."
So, what are healthcare assistants exactly?
"In simple terms, HCAs support patients with their day-to-day needs, whether that’s helping them wash, dress, eat, or move around safely. But to me, it's so much more than that. We provide emotional comfort, a listening ear, and often become a familiar face in someone’s life."
But where do healthcare assistants work?
"I can work in a variety of care settings, from care homes and nurseries offering basic but vital care support, to hospital settings where I have a lot more responsibility and get to experience all kinds of care situations."
And what does a healthcare assistant do in a hospital?
"Healthcare assistants mainly assist nurses with patient monitoring, help with mobility, support during mealtimes, and sometimes, we can even assist in preparing hospital equipment. It’s fast-paced and challenging but incredibly rewarding."
Who do healthcare assistants work with?
"This is one thing that surprised me really, as HCAs interact with so many people on a daily basis. We’re always part of a wider healthcare team that includes nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and, of course, the people we care for and their families. It really is a collaborative environment where every role is respected and valued."
Would you say being a healthcare assistant is a good job, then?
"So many people have asked me this, and I can confidently say yes. It’s a job filled with purpose, human connection, and variety. Every day is different, and you go home knowing you’ve made someone’s life a little bit better. The emotional rewards far outweigh the challenges, and the opportunities to grow with companies like Nurseplus in the role are endless."
Tell us, what jobs can a healthcare assistant do?
"Beyond basic care, and depending on your training and interests, you can go on to specialise in areas like mental health, children’s care, or community support. Some HCAs go on to become nurses or move into management roles. Nurseplus is great at helping you map out your career goals and supporting professional development."
Why did you choose healthcare assistant as a profession?
"For me, it came down to wanting a career that meant something. I wanted to help people directly, to work in a role where empathy and care are at the centre of everything. Becoming a healthcare assistant with Nurseplus has given me all that and more.
If you're considering a role in care, I couldn’t recommend being a healthcare assistant more. You don’t need to have years of experience, qualifications or a medical degree, just a genuine desire to care for others. Joining Nurseplus has been a life-changing decision, and I’m proud to be part of such a compassionate and hardworking team."
Posted on June 30, 2025 by Nurseplus