Starting out in adult social care
Are you looking for a career in adult social care but don’t know where to start?
Our Make a Difference Programme could be for you.
It’s ideal if you’re starting your career, looking for a change or returning to work after a career break.
What is the Make A Difference Programme?
It’s a regular fully-funded, 4 to 6 week programme* to help you take your first steps into the world of adult social care. It offers everything you need to succeed, including:
comprehensive training
interview guidance and a guaranteed interview at the end of the programme
(*timings subject to change)
I was recently made redundant, and I was feeling a little lost and didn’t know what to do with myself. The Wakefield Make-a-difference programme has given me a new lease of live, giving me an invite and opportunity at a career I would never have thought of. It has now opened a whole new world of career path opportunities.
Gareth
Thank you, honestly really happy with myself didn’t think I’d have got this far never mind a job. I’m so thankful to you guys for helping me with it.
Jericho
Am I able to join the programme?
To be accepted onto the programme, you must:
have the Right to Work in the UK (sponsorship opportunities are not available via the Make a Difference Programme), relevant documentation will be verified
be based within the Wakefield district in a property with a (WF) postcode
not already hold a Level 1 or higher qualification in Social Care
have resided in the UK for 6 months or more
Entry Level 1 Maths & English
be aged 18+
Do I have to pay?
No, there are no costs. The training is free and you will also get a free Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This is to make sure that you are able to work with vulnerable adults.
Taking part in the programme will not affect your benefits or universal credit.
Find out more
Our Make A Difference programme runs approximately every 8 weeks, we hold sign-up days throughout the year. Come along to our next Sign Up Day and find out more about working in adult social care and the Make a Difference programme. We’ll discuss your suitability and answer any questions you might have.
Upcoming dates
The next Make a Difference Programme Sign Up Day is taking place on Friday 15 January 2026 at Wakefield Town Hall.
Please sign up to our mailing list to be the first to hear about upcoming events!
Are you a provider interested in providing a workplace opportunity? If so, please visit our Support for providers page for further information.