Relatives

What does a relatives' caregiver do? – Tasks and work environment

A relatives' caregiver is responsible for providing support, care, and practical assistance to a close relative who, due to illness, disability, or advanced age, has difficulty managing independently. Tasks can include personal care, assistance with meals and medication, social support, and simple household chores. The work often takes place in the home or involves close contact with the relative, making the work environment both personal and varied. Relatives' caregivers often collaborate with municipal assistance officers, home care services, and other healthcare personnel to ensure the relative receives appropriate help and support.

Salary development over time

Salaries for relatives' caregivers have shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,100 SEK per month, increasing to 29 400 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 30 200 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 11% over the three-year period. This salary development can be explained by an increased focus on working conditions within healthcare and social care, as well as higher demand for competent relatives' caregivers as the population ages. Additionally, improved working conditions and collective agreements have contributed to salary increases. Nevertheless, regional and individual differences still exist depending on education level, employer, and employment type.

Relatives' caregiver salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female/male): 26,500 SEK / 26,800 SEK
• Highest salary (female/male): 41,700 SEK / 35,600 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 181 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 102% of men's salary (women: 30 400 SEK, men: 29 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data is missing or varies depending on municipality and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a relatives' caregiver, no formal education is typically required, but experience in healthcare and social work is often advantageous. Municipalities may offer introductory training and sometimes specific courses for relatives' caregivers. Personal qualities such as empathy, patience, and the ability to work independently are important in the profession. It is also common for relatives' caregivers to participate in support groups or skills-enhancing activities to strengthen their role.

• Formal education: No requirements, but healthcare and social care training is advantageous
• Certifications/courses: Municipal introductory courses are available
• Practical experience: Previous work in care or home care is highly valued
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish language skills and social competence
• Support and training: Opportunities for supervision and support groups

Common benefits and compensations

Relatives' caregivers may be entitled to various forms of financial support, such as municipal relatives' support or compensation through the Social Insurance Agency. Other common benefits include training, supervision, and access to relief services. In some municipalities, wellness allowances and support to prevent health issues are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as relatives' caregivers is generally low but varies depending on municipality and region. One of the major challenges is that the role often involves significant personal commitment and can be emotionally demanding. There is a lack of uniform rules regarding employment types and compensation levels, which can create insecurity. Limited opportunities for career development and the absence of formal education for the profession mean many relatives' caregivers learn on the job. At the same time, there is growing interest in strengthening the profession's status and conditions.

Tips for those who want to become relatives' caregivers

To succeed as a relatives' caregiver, it is important to have a high degree of empathy and patience, as the work often involves supporting people in difficult life situations. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different needs and routines in the home are also crucial. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with both relatives and healthcare staff. Independence is key, as the work is often performed alone and requires initiative. It is also valuable to be attentive and willing to seek support and supervision when needed. Openness to participating in training and support groups helps strengthen knowledge and job satisfaction. Finally, setting boundaries and taking care of one's own health are essential for long-term sustainability.

Key facts about Relatives' Caregivers

• Education level: No formal requirements, but experience in healthcare is recommended
• Typical work environment: The relative's home
• Work form: Often hourly employment or municipal compensation
• Demand: 375 job openings (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Majority women, but men also work in the role

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years as a relatives' caregiver, there are opportunities to broaden competence through further training within healthcare and social care, such as becoming a nursing assistant or care worker. Some choose to work in home care, elderly care, or move into more specialized roles within municipal care. The Employment Service does not provide a specific prognosis for relatives' caregivers due to limited data, but there is continued demand within the group of other healthcare and social care personnel. The profession can serve as an entry point into other healthcare roles or as a long-term position for those who enjoy close and personal care work.

Frequently asked questions about Relatives' Caregivers

• What does a Relatives' Caregiver earn?
  - A relatives' caregiver has an average salary of 30 200 SEK per month.
• How do you become a relatives' caregiver?
  - No formal education is required, but experience in healthcare and social work is advantageous, and some municipalities offer introductory courses.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 30 400 SEK while men earn 29 800 SEK per month.
• What is the work environment like for a relatives' caregiver?
  - The work is usually performed in the home of the relative and involves varied tasks and close contact with the care recipient.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - After a few years, further education can lead to work as a nursing assistant, care worker, or within home care services.
• How many job openings are available?
  - There are 375 available jobs within the group of other healthcare and social care personnel.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a relatives' caregiver?
  - The highest salary is 41,700 SEK (female, municipal sector, research education) and the lowest is 26,500 SEK (female, state sector, short pre-secondary education).