Home care assistant

What does a Hemvårdsbiträde do? – Tasks and work environment

Hemvårdsbiträden primarily work within home care services and support elderly or individuals with disabilities in their daily lives. Tasks may include assistance with personal care, cleaning, cooking, shopping, and social support. The work is usually performed in the client's home, which means the work environment varies depending on individual needs and housing conditions. The role requires flexibility, attentiveness, and the ability to work independently, often in collaboration with colleagues and other healthcare professionals.

Salary development over time

The salary for Hemvårdsbiträden has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 27 900 in 2023. The positive trend continued in 2024, with an average salary of 28 700. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.5% over three years. The salary development reflects an increased demand for Hemvårdsbiträden, partly due to an aging population and a greater need for home care. At the same time, the labor market has been characterized by recruitment difficulties, which has further driven up wages in the profession.

Hemvårdsbiträde salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,900 SEK/month (male, municipal sector)
• Highest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (private sector employee)
• Hourly wage: 172 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women and men earn the same, 28 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Hemvårdsbiträde, no formal degree is required, but employers prefer applicants with high school education in care and nursing. Many employers offer internal training and orientation. Practical experience in healthcare is advantageous, as are good skills in the Swedish language.

• High school education: Care and nursing program, 3 years
• Introductory training: Often offered by the employer
• Internship: Common during education or as holiday work
• Self-study: Basic knowledge of elderly care and disabilities is recommended
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish, service-mindedness, and empathy

Common benefits and compensations

Hemvårdsbiträden are generally covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Occupational pension and insurance are often included in employment. Some employers offer work clothes, further training, and support for continuing education in the healthcare sector.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for Hemvårdsbiträden is characterized by high demand and a relatively large supply of part-time workers. Despite many job opportunities, recruitment can be challenging because the work is physically and mentally demanding. The biggest challenge is often finding and retaining staff with the right engagement and patience for the profession. Workload can be high, especially during staff shortages or holiday periods. Flexibility and the ability to handle various situations are crucial for thriving and remaining in the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a Hemvårdsbiträde

To succeed as a Hemvårdsbiträde, it is good to be attentive and empathetic, as the work involves daily contact with vulnerable or individuals with special needs. Patience and stress tolerance facilitate days that can be intense and fast-paced. Accuracy is important to follow routines and ensure safety for clients, while flexibility is needed to adapt to different situations. Good communication skills make it easier to collaborate with colleagues and understand clients' needs, and a genuine interest in helping others is often what makes the profession rewarding in the long term.

Key facts about Hemvårdsbiträde

• Education level: High school education in care and nursing recommended
• Work environment: Varies, mainly work in clients' homes
• Demand: Very high, 375 job openings nationwide
• Gender equality: No salary differences between women and men
• Future prospects: Good, demand expected to increase over the next five years

Career paths and future outlook

After a few years of experience as a Hemvårdsbiträde, there are opportunities to further train as a undersköterska (nursing assistant) or care worker, which can involve more advanced tasks and higher wages. Some choose to specialize in dementia care or palliative care. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the future outlook is very good, with an expected increase in demand due to an aging population. The profession is characterized by many part-time workers, but opportunities for full-time work are increasing. There is also the possibility to advance to supervisory roles or work in training new colleagues.

Frequently asked questions about Hemvårdsbiträde

• What is the average salary of a Hemvårdsbiträde?
  - The average salary for a Hemvårdsbiträde is 28 700 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - No, both women and men earn an average of 28 700 SEK within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for Hemvårdsbiträden?
  - The outlook is very good, and demand is expected to increase over the next five years.
• What education is required to become a Hemvårdsbiträde?
  - A high school education in care and nursing is recommended, but formal requirements vary.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Hemvårdsbiträde?
  - The highest salary is 30,200 SEK and the lowest 26,900 SEK per month.
• How many job openings are available in the profession?
  - There are 375 available jobs within the healthcare assistant profession.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Empathy, attentiveness, patience, and flexibility are especially important qualities for thriving as a Hemvårdsbiträde.