Navigating job codes within the UK’s employment landscape can feel overwhelming—especially when considering opportunities in healthcare. With increasing demand across the care sector, understanding specific classifications has never been more important.
Whether you’re planning to start a new role, explore a visa route, or simply seeking clarity on career options, decoding what lies behind job titles and their official codes is essential.
Among them, one job code has gained significant attention for its role in shaping the care workforce. But what exactly does it involve? In this post, I’ll break down everything you need to know, step by step.
What Is The UK 6145 Job Code?
The UK 6145 job code is a classification within the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system, used by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) to categorise occupations. Specifically, SOC code 6145 refers to care workers and home carers.
These professionals play a vital role in the UK’s health and social care system, offering hands-on personal care to individuals who are elderly, disabled, chronically ill, or otherwise in need of support.
This job code is also significant from an immigration perspective. It falls under the Skilled Worker visa route and is listed on the Shortage Occupation List, making it one of the eligible roles for overseas recruitment through the UK’s Health and Care Worker visa programme.
The 6145 code represents a broad range of frontline care positions, typically non-clinical, but essential to supporting daily living needs and safeguarding the wellbeing of service users.
It serves as a formal identifier for policy-making, labour market analysis, and visa sponsorship processes.
Definition Under The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC)
Under SOC definitions, care workers and home carers are responsible for attending to the physical and emotional care needs of individuals, primarily within residential homes, nursing homes, or clients’ private residences.
Their work is non-medical but crucial to maintaining health, dignity, and independence for those they serve.
The role is usually supervised, with staff often working under the guidance of senior care workers or health professionals.
It does not typically include managerial duties, which are covered under the 6146 job code (Senior Care Workers).
Who Does It Apply To?
The 6145 job code applies to individuals employed in various support-based care roles, regardless of the specific title used by the employer.
If the job involves providing personal, practical, and emotional assistance to people with care needs, it most likely falls under this SOC code.
This includes individuals working in both public and private care services, across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The application of the code is consistent throughout the UK and used for both domestic employment classification and immigration assessments.
Examples Of Job Titles Covered Under 6145
Although job titles may vary from one employer to another, many fall under the umbrella of SOC 6145. Common examples include:
- Care Assistant
- Home Care Worker
- Domiciliary Carer
- Personal Care Assistant
- Residential Support Worker
- Live-In Carer
- Community Support Worker
Each of these roles involves direct contact with individuals requiring care, typically involving personal care tasks, mobility assistance, and social support.
Job Context And Work Environments
Care workers under 6145 are employed in a variety of settings:
- Residential care homes for the elderly or disabled
- Nursing homes providing round-the-clock support
- Domiciliary care agencies offering home-based care
- Community centres or adult day care services
- Private households for live-in or visiting support
The role can be part-time or full-time, and often includes shift work, including weekends, early mornings, and late nights. It is well suited to individuals who are patient, compassionate, and physically capable of handling a demanding care environment.
Immigration And Sponsorship Relevance
From an immigration standpoint, this job code is central to the Health and Care Worker visa scheme. Care workers classified under SOC 6145 are eligible to apply for this visa, provided their employer is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and holds a sponsorship licence.
Due to high demand in the sector, many UK employers actively recruit overseas candidates to fill care worker positions. This has made the 6145 job code especially relevant to international job seekers aiming to enter the UK care workforce.
What Are The Main Responsibilities Of Care Workers And Home Carers?
The work of a care worker is hands-on and people-focused, requiring a compassionate and consistent approach to client wellbeing. Responsibilities vary depending on the employer and the care setting, but core duties remain consistent across the role.
Day-To-Day Duties
Care workers are typically responsible for:
- Assisting with washing, dressing, and toileting
- Helping clients with feeding and medication
- Supporting mobility and use of mobility aids
- Engaging in light housekeeping or meal preparation
- Providing companionship and emotional support
- Monitoring client health and reporting changes
These tasks ensure that clients are safe, healthy, and comfortable in their living environments.
Key Settings Where They Work
Care workers are employed across various environments, such as:
- Residential care homes
- Nursing homes
- Private homes via domiciliary care services
- Supported living arrangements
- Adult day care centres
Each setting brings different challenges and expectations. For example, domiciliary carers often work independently and travel between clients, while residential care workers typically function as part of a team in a facility.
What Qualifications And Skills Are Required For SOC 6145 Roles?
Although entry-level positions are available in care without formal academic qualifications, the industry increasingly values accredited training and prior experience. Employers often provide initial training and encourage ongoing professional development.
Essential Certifications And Training
Commonly expected qualifications and certifications include:
- Care Certificate (mandatory induction training for new care staff in England)
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
- First aid and CPR certification
- Moving and handling training
- Food hygiene certification
These credentials help prepare care workers for the physical and emotional demands of the job and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Soft Skills That Employers Look For
Soft skills are equally crucial in care work. Employers look for individuals who demonstrate:
- Empathy and compassion
- Patience and emotional resilience
- Clear communication and listening abilities
- Organisation and time management
- Adaptability and a team-oriented mindset
The interpersonal nature of care work means that workers need to build strong relationships with clients and their families.
How Does The 6145 Job Code Relate To The UK Health And Care Worker Visa?
The UK government has included the 6145 job code in the list of eligible occupations for the Health and Care Worker visa. This means that qualified care workers from overseas can apply for this visa to work in the UK, provided they meet specific requirements.
Visa Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the following conditions to be eligible:
- A confirmed job offer from a UK employer that holds a sponsor licence
- Employment with an organisation regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
- A salary of at least £20,960 per year or £10.75 per hour
- Satisfactory English language proficiency
- Clearance through a criminal record check and health screening
Visa applicants under this route benefit from reduced visa fees and exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge, which lowers the cost of moving to the UK.
Sponsorship Rules And CQC Registration
Only employers registered with the CQC and listed as licensed sponsors by the UK Home Office are permitted to hire care workers from abroad under this route. This ensures that applicants work for legitimate, quality-assured organisations committed to delivering safe and effective care.
Can Care Workers Under The 6145 Job Code Bring Dependants To The UK?
Policy updates introduced in 2024 have significantly altered the immigration rules for care workers regarding their families. These changes have affected the way the Health and Care Worker visa operates in relation to dependants.
Rule Changes Effective From March 11, 2024
As of 11 March 2024, new applicants under job codes 6145 and 6146 are no longer permitted to bring dependants to the UK.
This change was part of the government’s broader effort to reduce net migration and ensure that the visa route remains aligned with the country’s workforce needs.
Dependants include spouses or partners and children under the age of 18. The restriction applies only to new visa applications and not to those who had already received a visa before the change.
Exceptions And Transitional Cases
Applicants who were already in the UK on a Health and Care Worker visa before the 2024 cut-off date retain the right to sponsor dependants under the existing rules. However, any new applications submitted after the deadline, even by existing visa holders changing jobs, will be assessed under the updated policy.
What Is The Career Path For Someone In A 6145 Job Code Position?
Care work offers a clear path for career development, especially for those willing to pursue further training and take on additional responsibilities. The role often serves as a gateway into the broader health and social care profession.
Opportunities For Promotion
Experienced care workers can progress to roles such as:
- Senior care worker (SOC 6146)
- Care team leader or supervisor
- Training officer or care coordinator
- Assistant care manager
Some roles involve taking on more administrative or supervisory duties, such as managing rotas, overseeing junior staff, and liaising with families or medical professionals.
Upskilling And Continuous Development Options
Professional growth is supported by a range of qualifications and training opportunities. These include:
- Level 4 or 5 Diplomas in Health and Social Care
- Specialised courses in dementia, autism, or palliative care
- Adult care worker apprenticeships
- Foundation degrees or university pathways into nursing and social work
Continual professional development is often encouraged and supported by employers in this sector.
How Much Do Care Workers Under 6145 Job Code Earn In The UK?
Pay for care workers varies significantly depending on factors such as region, experience, employer, and shift patterns. While the minimum salary threshold is set for visa eligibility, many roles offer competitive rates, especially with additional responsibilities.
Average Salary By Region
| Region | Average Annual Salary |
| London | £23,000 – £27,000 |
| South East | £22,000 – £25,000 |
| Midlands | £21,000 – £24,000 |
| North West | £20,000 – £23,000 |
| Scotland & Wales | £19,000 – £22,000 |
Factors Affecting Income
Salaries may be influenced by:
- Overtime and unsocial hours pay
- Location and cost of living
- Agency work versus salaried employment
- Experience and specialisation
Some employers also offer benefits such as travel reimbursement, free training, and pension contributions.
What Are The Work Conditions Like For Care Workers And Home Carers?
Care work is a physically and emotionally demanding profession. The work environment, while rewarding, often involves long hours, high workloads, and exposure to sensitive situations. However, for those who value making a difference in people’s lives, the rewards can be substantial.
Typical Hours And Shifts
Most care workers operate on a flexible rota system. This can include:
- Early mornings, late evenings, or overnight shifts
- Weekend and bank holiday work
- Split shifts and on-call duties
Shift patterns can vary considerably depending on the employer and care setting.
Workplace Challenges And Rewards
Some common challenges include:
- Managing challenging behaviour or emotional situations
- Performing physically strenuous tasks like lifting or assisting with mobility
- Coping with under-resourced teams or high client caseloads
Despite these hurdles, many care workers find immense satisfaction in building relationships with clients and making a tangible difference in their quality of life.
Final Thoughts: Is a 6145 job code role right for you?
Working under the 6145 job code is not just a job—it’s a vocation. It requires dedication, compassion, and the willingness to support others at their most vulnerable. If you’re seeking a career with purpose and progression, this path could be the ideal fit.
FAQs About the 6145 Job Code in the UK
What is the difference between SOC 6145 and 6146?
SOC 6145 refers to care workers without supervisory responsibilities, whereas 6146 is for senior care workers who often manage teams or oversee care plans.
Do I need experience to apply for a care worker job in the UK?
Many employers prefer candidates with some care experience, but it’s not always required. Training is usually provided during induction.
Is 6145 considered a skilled occupation?
Yes, it’s classified as a skilled job under the UK’s Skilled Worker visa route, particularly due to its inclusion on the Shortage Occupation List.
Can I switch jobs under the Health and Care Worker visa?
Yes, but you must obtain sponsorship from your new employer and update your visa accordingly through the UK Home Office.
Are 6145 roles in demand in the UK?
Absolutely. Due to an ageing population and a shortage of care workers, SOC 6145 roles are in consistently high demand across the UK.
Do employers provide visa sponsorship for SOC 6145 jobs?
Yes, many care homes and agencies are registered sponsors and actively recruit overseas workers for these roles.
What’s the process for becoming a care worker in the UK?
You’ll need a job offer, visa sponsorship, relevant qualifications or training, and a DBS check. Some roles may require English language testing as well.
