Orphanage assistant

What does a children’s home care worker do? – Tasks and work environment

A children’s home care worker provides care, safety, and daily support to children and young people living in institutions or specialized housing. Tasks include assisting with daily routines such as meals and homework, as well as offering emotional and social support. The role often involves close collaboration with social workers, educators, and other caregivers to create a stable and developmental environment for the children. The work environment can be both challenging and rewarding, as shifts may be irregular and require stress management and empathy.

Salary development over time

The salary for children’s home care workers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,800 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 26 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 27 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.6% over the period. This positive trend reflects a growing focus on working conditions and competence in caregiving professions, although salary levels still remain slightly below the average for similar roles. The explanation for the salary development partly relates to increased demand for educated staff and higher requirements for documented experience. Despite this, the forecast indicates a surplus of labor in the market, which could influence future salary trends.

Children’s Home Care Worker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,900 SEK (male, private sector, upper secondary education, 3 years)
• Highest salary: 28,900 SEK (female, public sector, upper secondary education, up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 165 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 27 600 SEK/month (105 % of men's salary)
• Men earn: 26 300 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a children’s home care worker, a typical requirement is upper secondary education with a focus on children and recreation or social work. Many employers also value experience working with children and personal suitability. It is common to supplement education with short courses in areas such as communication and conflict management. Practical training (internship) is often integrated into the education to provide necessary work experience.

• Upper secondary education: Child and Recreation program (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in communication, conflict management, and first aid
• Practical training: Often included in the education (Workplace Learning)
• Prerequisites: Approved basic school grades, personal suitability
• Tip: Engagement in volunteer work or summer jobs in care can strengthen your CV

Common benefits and compensation

Children’s home care workers often have rights to overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness grants, and sometimes extra vacation days. Employers may offer support sessions, supervision, and opportunities for further training. Occupational pension and collective agreements are common in both public and private sectors.

Challenges and competition

The market for children’s home care workers is characterized by an oversupply of labor, meaning competition for positions is high. Currently, there are about 237 available jobs in the profession, but the chances of employment are considered limited according to the Employment Service’s forecast. The challenges in the profession include not only finding a job but also managing emotionally demanding situations and creating safety for children in vulnerable environments. Changes in political priorities and resource allocation could further affect working conditions. It is therefore important to be well-prepared and demonstrate strong commitment to the children’s best interests.

Tips for those who want to become a children’s home care worker

To succeed as a children’s home care worker, it is good to have a genuine care for children and young people and be prepared to handle challenging situations with patience. Developing teamwork skills and the ability to work with colleagues and other professionals is crucial, as the work often involves collaboration. Good listening skills help understand children’s needs and build trust, while setting boundaries contributes to safety. Flexibility and quick decision-making under pressure are valuable in the often unpredictable daily work. It is recommended to seek internships or summer jobs in care to build experience and networks. Finally, staying updated on new methods and research can help provide the best possible support to children.

Key facts about Children’s Home Care Worker

• Education level: Upper secondary (Child and Recreation program)
• Work environment: Shift work, often including evening and weekend shifts
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, oversupply of applicants
• Number of available jobs: 237 in the profession
• Gender distribution: Predominantly women, with slightly higher average salaries

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years, a children’s home care worker can advance to roles with more responsibility, such as supervisor or coordinator within childcare or social work. Further education can open opportunities for positions as treatment assistants or educators in specialized housing. The Employment Service’s forecasts indicate that competition for these roles remains tough, with limited job prospects and a national oversupply of trained professionals. Nevertheless, there is always a need for dedicated staff, especially in regions with high care demands. Broadening skills and being open to related roles can improve future prospects.

Frequently asked questions about Children’s Home Care Worker

• What is the average salary of a Children’s Home Care Worker?
  - A children’s home care worker has an average salary of 27 500 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 27 600 SEK and men earn 26 300 SEK, which means women earn approximately 105 % of men’s salaries.
• What education is required to become a children’s home care worker?
  - Upper secondary education, typically the Child and Recreation program, along with relevant practical experience and personal suitability.
• What is the job market like for children’s home care workers?
  - The market has an oversupply of applicants, and job opportunities are limited according to the Employment Service.
• What are the most common benefits for children’s home care workers?
  - Benefits include overtime pay, wellness grants, collective agreements, and ongoing training.
• How has salary development been in recent years?
  - The average salary increased from 25,800 SEK in 2022 to 27 500 SEK in 2024.
• What career opportunities exist after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include progressing to supervisor, treatment assistant, or further social work education.