Careers
21 Jul 2025
How Much Does a Care Assistant Earn?
Pay Rates and Benefits Explained

Fair pay for meaningful work
Care assistant salaries have improved significantly in recent years. Understanding current pay rates and benefits helps you make informed career decisions.
Current pay rates
With Newcross, we offer competitive pay rates for healthcare assistants, with premiums available in rural areas or for shifts at weekends, nights or some bank holidays.
Factors affecting pay
Location Rural areas typically offer higher hourly rates. The South West, Wales, and parts of Scotland often pay premium rates.
Shift patterns
At Newcross, you have the flexibility to choose the shifts you want to do. Work when you want and around your other commitments.
Choose from day or night shifts, weekend work, or bank holidays. You can usually earn a premium for working non-typical shifts.
Additional benefits to consider
Financial benefits
Pension contributions
Holiday pay
Mileage allowances for some shifts
Professional development
Fully funded training and qualifications with FuturU
Career progression opportunities
Mentoring and supervision
Conference and workshop attendance
Work-life balance benefits
Flexible scheduling options
Part-time and bank work available
Wellbeing support
Employee assistance programs
Mental health and wellbeing resources
Recognition and reward schemes
Social events and team building
Career progression and earning potential
Senior care assistant roles With experience, move into senior positions with additional responsibilities and higher pay.
Specialist areas Develop expertise in dementia care, learning disabilities, or mental health for premium roles.
Team leadership Progress to team leader, supervisor, or coordinator positions with management responsibilities.
Further qualifications Complete Level 3 diplomas or degree courses to access registered roles like nursing or social work.
What affects your take-home pay
Tax and National Insurance Standard deductions apply, though care workers may be eligible for certain allowances.
Pension contributions Auto-enrolment in workplace pensions, with employer contributions adding to your total package value.
Travel considerations Some employers provide vehicles or generous mileage rates. Factor in travel costs when comparing opportunities.
Why invest in a care career
Beyond immediate pay, care offers job security, personal satisfaction, and genuine career progression opportunities. The sector continues growing, with increasing recognition of care workers' value.
Competitive packages at Newcross We offer competitive rates, comprehensive benefits, and clear progression paths because we value our care assistants' contribution.
Ready to explore your earning potential? Discover current vacancies in your area and see what you could earn as a care assistant.