Hemsamarit

What does a home helper do? – Tasks and work environment

A home helper primarily provides support and care to the elderly or individuals with disabilities in their own homes. Tasks include practical assistance such as cleaning, cooking, shopping, and personal care, as well as social support and companionship. The work often involves close contact with clients and their relatives, requiring sensitivity and the ability to adapt interventions to individual needs. The work environment varies, as the workday takes place in different homes and sometimes involves traveling between clients, which demands flexibility and good physical health.

Salary development over time

The salary for home helpers has shown a stable and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,700 SEK per month, increasing to 31 900 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 32 800, representing an increase of approximately 6.8% over three years. This rise reflects increased demand for the profession, especially due to an aging population and growing care needs. Salary increases may also be linked to collective bargaining negotiations and a focus on improving working conditions in the care sector. Despite improvements, salaries still remain relatively close between men and women, with a slightly higher average for women.

Home helper salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month (female, private sector, vocational education less than 9 years)
• Highest salary: 35,800 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 197 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 32 900 SEK, men 32 300 SEK – women earn 102% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on employer and region, often higher in larger cities and in the municipal sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a home helper, a high school education in care and nursing is usually required, although some employers may accept shorter training or relevant work experience. Practical skills, empathy, and the ability to work independently are important qualities. Many employers also offer internal training and introductory programs for new employees.

• High school education: Care and nursing program, often 3 years
• Certifications: Courses in lifting techniques, hygiene routines, and dementia care are advantageous
• Internship: Practical training or workplace-based learning during education is common
• Prerequisites: Often no formal higher education requirement, but work experience is valuable
• Tips for choosing: Interest in caregiving and good communication skills facilitate career choice

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for home helpers include collective pension schemes, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also offer compensation for unsociable hours, work clothing, and insurance coverage during working hours. Some municipalities may additionally provide extra vacation days or bonus systems linked to specific efforts.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a home helper is characterized by high demand and good employment opportunities, but challenges exist. Recruitment difficulties are common, partly because many work part-time and the workload can be heavy at times. The strain caused by staff shortages, time pressure, and physically demanding tasks affects the work environment. The role also requires strong mental resilience, as home helpers often encounter people in vulnerable life situations. Despite this, job satisfaction is high when proper support and resources are available.

Tips for those wishing to become a home helper

To succeed as a home helper, it is good to be attentive and genuinely willing to help others. Showing patience and empathy facilitates contact with clients who may have varying needs each day. It's wise to take advantage of practical training opportunities and to be flexible, as the work environment can change quickly. Good communication skills are important, both for collaborating with colleagues and for creating trust with clients. Being thorough with routines and hygiene contributes to a safe and professional work environment. Initiative and independence are appreciated by employers and make daily work smoother. Finally, physical endurance is necessary, as the job can be physically demanding and involve many transfers during a workday.

Key facts about home helpers

• Education level: High school education in care and nursing recommended
• Work environment: Clients' homes, varied workplaces
• Common employment form: Part-time or full-time, often scheduled day/evening/weekend shifts
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in the municipal sector
• Special skills: Care, lifting techniques, and interpersonal skills

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a home helper, there are opportunities to further qualify as an assistant nurse or specialize in areas such as dementia care, rehabilitation, or palliative care. It is also common to advance to coordinating roles or work as a supervisor within home care. According to the Employment Service, the outlook is very positive, with continued high demand due to an aging population. Nationally, recruitment difficulties and a large number of vacant positions are reported – currently, there are 375 job openings in the profession. The forecast indicates increased employment opportunities over the next five years.

Frequently asked questions about home helpers

• What is the average salary of a home helper?
  - The average salary for a home helper is 32 800 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a home helper?
  - High school education in care and nursing is recommended, but shorter training or experience can also suffice.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 32 900 SEK and men 32 300 SEK, meaning women earn 102% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for home helpers?
  - There are great employment opportunities and high demand, with 375 job openings in the profession.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Empathy, patience, flexibility, and good communication skills are particularly important.
• What are the working hours like?
  - The work is often scheduled and can include day, evening, and weekend shifts.
• Can home helpers pursue further education?
  - Yes, there are good opportunities for further training and specialization within the care sector.