The UK’s immigration system uses Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes to categorise jobs eligible for visa sponsorship, particularly under the Skilled Worker visa route.
One such designation, 6134 job code, plays a significant role in healthcare and social care recruitment. Understanding this code is essential for employers, job applicants, and immigration advisors who are navigating the UK’s evolving workforce landscape.
What Is the 6134 Job Code and Why Is It Important for Skilled Worker Visas?
The 6134 job code is a classification under the UK Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system used by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the Home Office. It identifies specific occupations that can be considered for skilled worker visa eligibility.
This particular code includes individuals working in residential care or housing environments who provide support, supervision, and pastoral care to residents.
These jobs often involve working with vulnerable populations such as children, elderly individuals, or persons with disabilities.
The importance of the 6134 job code lies in its use by:
- Immigration authorities to assess visa applications
- Employers to determine which roles are eligible for sponsorship
- Job seekers to identify visa-compatible roles
This code ensures consistency across employment, training, and immigration systems, helping streamline the recruitment of skilled workers from overseas.
Who Falls Under the 6134 Job Code Category in the UK?
The following roles fall under the 6134 classification:
- Foster Carers: Individuals who provide temporary homes to children in care. These roles are not usually salaried and are not eligible for sponsorship.
- Residential Childcare Practitioners: Staff who work in children’s homes or similar settings, providing day-to-day care and support.
- School Matrons and Houseparents: Professionals employed in boarding schools or residential educational settings to support students’ health and welfare.
- Residential Housing Wardens: Workers who oversee supported housing schemes for elderly or disabled residents, ensuring safety and assistance.
- Houseparents and Residential Wardens Not Elsewhere Classified: A broader category that includes roles not specified above but similar in function.
These occupations often share overlapping responsibilities, including safeguarding, routine supervision, and coordination with external agencies.
Is the 6134 Job Code Eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Roles under the 6134 job code can be eligible for the Skilled Worker visa, depending on the specific duties and salary. However, eligibility is not automatic and depends on meeting the following conditions:
- The employer must be a licensed sponsor
- The role must meet skill level requirements as defined by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
- The salary offered must meet or exceed the minimum threshold, typically £20,960 per year or £10.75 per hour (subject to change)
Eligible 6134 roles for sponsorship typically include:
- Residential childcare workers
- Houseparents in registered educational institutions
- Housing wardens in social housing organisations
Foster carers are excluded from eligibility because they do not receive traditional salaries, and the role does not meet immigration salary requirements.
What Are the Main Duties and Responsibilities of 6134 Job Roles?
Job roles categorised under the 6134 SOC code cover a diverse range of responsibilities, depending on the setting and the population being supported.
While the environments may differ—from children’s residential homes to housing for vulnerable adults—these roles share core responsibilities in maintaining safety, well-being, and structure in a residential context.
These duties are typically grouped into five broad subcategories: Supervision and Care, Support and Development, Administrative Tasks, Health and Safety, and Liaison with External Services.
Supervision and Care
Professionals in 6134 roles are primarily responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities and general conduct of residents.
Whether in a boarding school or a care home, the focus is on maintaining a secure and nurturing environment. This includes monitoring routines, enforcing house rules, and intervening when behavioural issues arise.
Residential childcare practitioners may also be tasked with providing emotional support during moments of distress, acting as a stable and caring adult figure.
Support and Development
Developmental support is a key component, especially in educational or therapeutic environments. Staff are expected to encourage personal growth, teach basic life skills, and promote independence.
This might involve helping young people with homework, coaching them in conflict resolution, or guiding residents in managing their daily responsibilities. Emotional and psychological encouragement is just as important as physical care.
Administrative Tasks
Record keeping is a critical responsibility in 6134 job roles. Staff must maintain detailed logs of incidents, health concerns, and behavioural observations.
These reports are often shared with social workers, medical professionals, or school staff. Proper documentation ensures legal compliance, transparency, and continuity of care. In many roles, shift handovers also require precise communication to maintain consistency in support.
Health and Safety
Ensuring a safe living environment is non-negotiable. This includes routine room checks, risk assessments, monitoring fire safety equipment, and enforcing hygiene standards.
Staff must also be trained to respond to emergencies, such as medical issues or safeguarding alerts, with clear protocols.
Liaison with External Services
Collaboration with external agencies forms another vital part of the job. Professionals may interact with social workers, teachers, healthcare workers, or police depending on the resident’s needs.
These partnerships ensure that care is coordinated and aligned with broader support strategies.
What Qualifications and Skills Are Needed for 6134 Job Roles?
Qualifications vary slightly depending on the specific job role, but there are common standards across the board.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare (for children’s home staff)
- NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care
- First Aid certification
- Basic Food Hygiene certification (for residential houseparents)
Key Skills:
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Empathy, patience, and resilience
- Organisational abilities and time management
- Crisis handling and safeguarding awareness
- Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and nights
Employers may also request enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks due to the nature of working with vulnerable individuals.
What Is the Average Salary for 6134 Job Code Positions in the UK?
The salary range for roles under the 6134 job code varies by employer, region, and level of responsibility. Here’s a detailed overview:
| Job Role | Average Salary (Annual) | Notes |
| Residential Childcare Practitioner | £20,000 – £28,000 | Higher in urban areas |
| School Matron | £22,000 – £30,000 | Boarding schools often pay more |
| Residential Housing Warden | £21,000 – £27,000 | Dependent on location and shift work |
| Foster Carer | Allowance-based only | Not salaried; varies by local authority |
The pay structure can also include additional benefits such as accommodation (for live-in roles), meals, and pension contributions. However, for Skilled Worker visa applicants, it is critical that the offered salary meets Home Office thresholds.
How Does the Shortage Occupation List Impact the 6134 Job Code?
The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) identifies roles with a national labour shortage, allowing for more flexible visa conditions such as:
- Reduced salary thresholds
- Lower visa fees
- Priority visa processing
As of the latest updates, roles under the 6134 job code are not included on the SOL. This means:
- Standard salary thresholds must be met
- Visa fees and immigration health surcharge apply at the full rate
- There is no fast-track processing for these roles
Employers and applicants must be aware that even if demand for 6134 roles is high locally, exclusion from the SOL means full compliance with Skilled Worker visa rules is necessary.
What Employers Commonly Hire Under the 6134 SOC Code?
A range of public, private, and third-sector employers hire individuals under the 6134 classification. Common employers include:
- Local authorities: especially in children’s services and supported housing
- Boarding schools and private educational institutions: employing school matrons and houseparents
- Residential care providers: including private organisations and charities
- Housing associations: employing wardens for elderly and disabled residents
- Nonprofits and community interest companies (CICs): operating care homes and support programmes
Employers with an active sponsor licence can legally offer employment to overseas workers under this job code, provided they meet all immigration requirements.
What Are the Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Requirements for 6134 Roles?
To qualify for a Skilled Worker visa under the 6134 job code, the following requirements must be met:
- The job offer must be from a UKVI-approved sponsor
- The offered salary must meet or exceed £20,960 annually or the appropriate going rate
- The candidate must prove English language proficiency
- The role must be genuine and at the required skill level
- The applicant must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer.
Additionally, jobs involving work with children or vulnerable adults require a clean criminal background check. In some cases, employers also expect relevant experience or qualifications that align with UK care standards.
What Are the Long-Term Career Opportunities for Professionals in the 6134 Category?
Professionals in 6134 roles often develop skills that are transferable across various sectors including social care, education, and healthcare. Career progression can take multiple paths:
- Senior Residential Practitioner: managing teams within care homes
- Pastoral Care Leader: especially in educational environments
- Home Manager or Team Leader: responsible for operational oversight
- Youth Worker or Social Worker: through additional qualifications
- Safeguarding Officer: ensuring compliance with protection laws
Career development is often supported through in-service training, external certification, and degree programmes in social care or education.
Table: Comparison of Key Elements in 6134 Job Roles
| Criteria | School Matron | Housing Warden | Residential Childcare Worker |
| Work Environment | Boarding school | Supported housing | Children’s home |
| Shift Work Required | Often | Yes | Yes |
| Eligible for Visa Sponsorship | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Salary Range | £22K – £30K | £21K – £27K | £20K – £28K |
| Shortage Occupation List Status | No | No | No |
Conclusion
Understanding the 6134 job code is essential for both employers and professionals navigating the UK’s care and support sectors. From school matrons to housing wardens, these roles play a critical part in maintaining the well-being and safety of vulnerable individuals.
While not all positions under this code are eligible for visa sponsorship, many meet the requirements for the Skilled Worker visa, provided they adhere to salary and skill criteria.
With demand for compassionate, skilled care continuing to rise, the 6134 classification offers meaningful employment opportunities and career development pathways for those dedicated to residential care and support roles in the UK.
FAQs About the 6134 Job Code
What does the SOC 6134 code stand for in the UK?
The 6134 SOC code represents “Houseparents and Residential Wardens,” covering professionals in residential care, education, and housing settings.
Are school matrons eligible for UK skilled worker visas?
Yes, school matrons can qualify for the Skilled Worker visa if their role meets the salary and sponsorship requirements.
Can foster carers apply for visas under the 6134 job code?
No, foster caring is typically not salaried employment, making it ineligible for visa sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route.
Is the 6134 job code on the shortage occupation list?
No, 6134 is not currently listed on the UK’s shortage occupation list.
Do employers need a sponsor licence to hire under 6134?
Yes, employers must be licensed sponsors to hire foreign nationals under this job code for Skilled Worker visas.
What are the working hours for residential childcare practitioners?
They often work shifts, including evenings and weekends, with some live-in roles available.
What is the difference between a houseparent and a housing warden?
A houseparent typically works in educational settings with boarding students, while a housing warden supports residents in housing schemes, especially the elderly or disabled.
