AS a care worker you’ll often find yourself in other people’s homes, whether their own house or a care facility.

Often you’ll also be in close physical contact and have access to confidential personal details.

These clients and patients need you but they don’t necessarily want you in their private space.

This means allowing others to feel relaxed and at ease is a valuable people skill. It can make the vulnerable feel more comfortable and secure about their dayto- day life – and your essential part in it.

Many roles require working closely with patients, such as a social care assistant, who helps the elderly or those with a disability.

As a care worker or support worker, personal carer or home carer, you’ll be tasked by a local authority or private care home to carry out broadly similar duties – helping individuals with the basics of living while always enhancing their quality of life.

Whatever your chosen role, there are a few golden rules for putting people at ease.

Be a listener – Being friendly is a no-brainer. Your upbeat, sunny deposition is going to brighten anyone’s day. However the ability to listen to someone and be observant means you can identify issues without pushy questions. Nothing puts people at ease like the feeling someone is really listening and understanding their needs.

Stay open minded – In a caring role you’ll work with people from all walks of life, each with their own cultural norms and personal quirks. Having a flexible attitude and an open mind means taking these in your stride. This leaves your client free to express themselves without embarrassment or judgement.

Be confident – Being informal can put people at ease but suddenly admitting you’re not sure of something has the opposite effect. A client wants to know they’re in safe hands. You may not be able to solve an issue straight away but you can put the wheels in motion – being confident about this offers reassurance.

Respect boundaries – Some people are relaxed about personal space. They’re happy, for example, to accept help with washing or dressing. Others can feel vulnerable or embarrassed, particularly if it’s new to them. By being sensitive to sensitivities and keeping the lines of communication open, you can ensure the person feels fully in control at all times.