The UK healthcare system continues to rely heavily on care assistants and support workers, especially in adult social care. As demand for these roles increases, many people—both within and outside the UK—are asking: How much do care assistants earn in 2025?Whether you’re already working in the care sector or planning to apply (especially from abroad with visa sponsorship), understanding the current salary range helps you plan better and negotiate wisely. Let’s break it down.
Average Salary for Care Assistants in the UK (2025)
As of 2025, UK care assistants earn between £20,960 and £26,000 per year depending on experience, location, and employer.
This is equivalent to an hourly wage of £10.75 to £12.50 per hour, which aligns with the UK’s Health and Care Worker visa minimum salary threshold.
Some roles that include night shifts, weekend work, or live-in care may offer higher pay, bonuses, or allowances.
Salary Differences by Location
In the UK, salaries for care assistants can vary based on region:
- London and the South East generally offer higher pay to reflect the higher cost of living — salaries can reach £26,000+ annually.
- Areas in the North of England and Wales might offer slightly lower pay, around £20,000 – £22,500 per year.
- Scotland and Northern Ireland have similar rates, but pay may be influenced by local government funding and employer type.
Salary Based on Employer Type
Your salary also depends on who hires you:
1. NHS (National Health Service)
- NHS care assistants are often paid based on Agenda for Change Band 2 or Band 3.
- Typical salary: £22,383 to £24,336 annually.
- NHS roles may also include:
- Paid holidays
- Pension contributions
- Overtime rates
- Sick leave and maternity benefits
Private Care Homes or Agencies
- Salaries can be lower or higher, depending on the employer’s budget.
- Some private employers offer free accommodation or relocation support to international care workers.
Domiciliary (Home) Care
- Pay is usually hourly, and workers are paid for each visit or shift.
- You may earn £11 to £13 per hour, sometimes higher for urgent or night visits.
For International Applicants: What Does This Mean?
If you’re applying for a care assistant role from overseas with visa sponsorship, your employer must offer at least:
- £20,960 per year, or
- £10.75 per hour (based on a 39-hour week)
This is the minimum salary requirement for the UK Health and Care Worker Visa in 2025.
However, many employers pay more than the minimum to attract and retain good staff—especially those with prior caregiving experience or certifications like the Care Certificate.
Tips to Increase Your Earnings
If you’re working as or planning to become a UK care assistant, here’s how you can increase your pay:
- Gain more experience – The longer you work, the more you can negotiate.
- Take extra training – Courses like dementia care, end-of-life care, or medication administration can make you more valuable.
- Apply for senior roles – Senior care assistants or team leads often earn more.
- Work flexible hours – Night and weekend shifts usually pay better.
- Move to higher-paying areas – If possible, consider relocating to places with better pay, like London or cities in the South East.
UK care assistant salaries in 2025 are stable and provide a decent starting income, especially for entry-level healthcare workers or those coming from overseas. While the minimum threshold for visa sponsorship is set at £20,960, many earn more through experience, shift bonuses, and specialized roles.If you’re passionate about care work and willing to grow in your role, there’s plenty of room for progression — both professionally and financially.
Apply for a role with visa sponsorship here
