Planning your career

When you're caring for someone, it's easy to put your career plans on hold

A practical plan may give you more options and help you continue in your career when the time is right for you.

When making a plan, think about:

• any future training or qualifications you'll need
• any changes you might need to your way of working.

If you feel comfortable, try to talk openly about your caring responsibilities and your future career goals with your employer. Having an open conversation can help you plan for the future and move forwards in your career.

You may be able to agree new working practices with your manager, or agree training to gain new skills or qualifications.

Making a career plan

When planning for a career you should consider going through a career planning process:

Know yourself

Acknowledge what skills you already have, what you need to formalise them and what skills you need to add to get to your preferred destination.

Is there an opportunity?

Look at what type of role your skills match and what type of market there is for them. Find out if there are any qualifications you must have to reach your goal.

Decide what you need to do

Plan goals to reach your targets and consider your ‘next steps’ after reaching each target. Look for opportunities to gain experience or build qualifications and skills, for example, taking an Open University course.

Take action

Take the first step and apply for a course or ask for experience in a certain area of interest. Making the leap starts you on the process.

Feel like you need to boost your CV?

Look for courses to help improve your CV for the career you want. Attend training and take advantage of any free courses,  and think about any skills you've gained from your caring role.

Learning For Living is a free online course that can help you to recognise your skills as a carer. When you've completed the course, you'll receive a badge to present to your current or future employer.

Financial help with courses

Did you know there are bursaries and scholarship funds available to help carers study at the Open University?