The role of carers in social care is crucial over the festive period. We speak to UK carers about their experience of the job

Charlotte Seager

• • Guardian Professional, Thursday 18 December 2014 07.00 GMT

Every year tens of thousands of dedicated care and social care workers are needed to help look after vulnerable people over Christmas. Their role is crucial over the festive period, but what’s it like to work in the job during Yuletide?

“It’s not a job just for the money,” says Susan Law, who has worked as a care worker for more than 30 years for Leonard Cheshire Disability. “You’ve got to have a love of people and a willingness to help.”

Christmas is a particularly important time of year for carers, who look after the most vulnerable people in our communities. Their role at Christmas is to get each of the patients dressed and ready for the day with their families. “The continuity is important for those patients – they see a familiar face and keep their usual routine,” says Debra Watson, a care worker for Bluebird Care in Petersfield. “I particularly enjoy Christmas Day, going in and wishing everyone a merry Christmas.”