How old do you have to be to be a health care assistant?

**RonaldoVII** · 14-10-2009, 03:18 AM

**CluelessJones** · 28-06-2010, 02:32 PM

Just saw this so thought I'd drop you a line. There isn't a legal minimum age limit to begin nurse training, so I would expect you could start CHAing from 16, see below. The most important thing an employer will be looking for is experience of care and a temperament suitable for nursing. I got offered nursing jobs for my gap yah at age 18 having done nursing home voluntary work at 17.
If you want HCA work, build up a 'care' experience asap and start applying or jobs

Entry requirements for nursing - NHS Careers

**PredMed** · 14-09-2011, 12:04 AM

I had no idea you could start nursing jobs this early. I knew there were certain jobs in radiology and ultrasound operation that you could get, but I thought nursing was little more complicated. I'm in the states, and I always thought the requirements were post high school or even college grad. Good information to have for those asking me about careers.

**CMash** · 13-12-2011, 04:05 AM

Since nursing in the UK is now by degree only to start training as a nurse you have to be a minimum of 17 and a half so that by the time you commence your first placement you are 18. With regard to being a HCA I am not sure if there is an lower age limit and personally couldn't see it being a problem as long as you're over 16, but realistically, I doubt a trust would employ anyone under 18.