Becoming a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) in the UK with visa sponsorship is one of the most realistic and stable ways for international candidates to enter the British healthcare system. At MHA (Methodist Homes Association), HCAs play a hands-on role in supporting elderly residents with personal care, mobility, emotional well-being, and daily living while earning £13–£15 per hour, receiving 28 days of paid leave, and accessing the UK Health and Care Worker Visa.
This guide explains who can apply, what the job involves, visa requirements, real salaries, and how to apply, based on how UK care homes actually hire
What Does a Healthcare Assistant at MHA Do?
A healthcare assistant at MHA focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for residents, particularly older adults and people living with dementia.
Core Responsibilities (Day-to-Day)
Healthcare assistants work closely with registered nurses, senior carers, and support staff to deliver safe, person-centered care.
Key duties include:
- Assisting with personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting)
- Supporting mobility and safe transfers using hoists and aids
- Monitoring basic health observations (temperature, pulse, well-being)
- Providing emotional companionship and reassurance
- Maintaining hygiene, infection control, and safe environments
- Supporting residents during meals and hydration routines
Entities covered: personal care, dementia care, infection control, mobility aids, care planning, safeguarding, and residential care homes.
Salary, Hours, and Real Benefits (UK Data)
Healthcare assistant roles at MHA follow UK care-sector pay standards, not inflated figures.
Verified Pay Range
- £13.00 – £15.00 per hour
- Approx. £27,000 – £31,000 per year (full-time, 37.5 hours/week)
Additional Benefits
- 28 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Employer pension contributions
- Paid training and Care Certificate
- Flexible shift patterns (day, night, weekend)
- Long-term career progression into Senior Care Assistant or Nursing
Pro Tip from a Care Manager (Experience Signal):
“In our London homes near Brent and Wembley, HCAs who show reliability and compassion often move into senior roles within 12–18 months.”
Visa Sponsorship: UK Health and Care Worker Visa Explained
MHA is an approved UK visa sponsor, meaning eligible international applicants can legally work and live in the UK.
What Is the Health and Care Worker Visa?
It is a subcategory of the Skilled Worker Visa, designed specifically for healthcare roles such as:
- Healthcare Assistant
- Care Worker
- Support Worker
Visa Requirements
You must:
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from MHA
- Meet English language requirements (IELTS UKVI or equivalent)
- Pass a DBS background check
- Meet UKVI health and character rules
For official criteria, always verify with GOV.UK Health and Care Worker Visa (high-authority source).
Who Can Apply for Healthcare Assistant Jobs at MHA?
MHA hires based on attitude and values, not just experience.
You Can Apply If You Have:
- Compassion, patience, and emotional resilience
- Basic spoken and written English
- Willingness to work shifts (including weekends)
- Ability to support elderly residents respectfully
Experience & Qualifications
- Experience is helpful but not mandatory
- Full training is provided on the job
- NVQ, BTEC, or care certificates are a plus not required
Applicants commonly come from Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Ghana, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Caribbean countries.
Why Join MHA? (Authority & Trust)
MHA is the largest charitable care provider in the UK.
MHA by the Numbers (Trust Signals)
- 18,500+ residents supported
- 90+ care homes
- 70 retirement communities
- 62 community services
- Operating across England, including London, Birmingham, Leeds, and Manchester
Kenbrook Home, located in Brent, London, provides specialist dementia and nursing care for 51 residents, with en-suite rooms and garden access real, verifiable locations that prove physical presence.
Career Growth: Is This a Long-Term Path?
Yes. Many HCAs use this role as a gateway into UK healthcare careers.
Common progression paths:
- Senior Care Assistant
- Nursing Associate
- Registered Nurse (via funded training routes)
- Care Coordinator or Team Leader
This aligns with the UK’s long-term healthcare workforce shortage strategy.
How to Apply for Healthcare Assistant Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Prepare a UK-style CV (max 2 pages)
- Apply to an approved sponsor (MHA)
- Attend interview (often online)
- Receive Certificate of Sponsorship
- Pass English test & DBS check
- Apply for Health and Care Worker Visa
- Relocate to the UK
📩 Apply directly:
Send CV and cover letter to kenbrook@mha.org.uk
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications improve selection chances.
Internal Linking Strategy (Example)
- Primary service link (within first 200 words):
[UK Health & Care Worker Visa Sponsorship Jobs] - Supporting content link:
[NHS & Private Care Assistant Jobs in UK]
(Ensure each page is linked from at least two others to avoid orphan pages.)
Conclusion
Healthcare assistant jobs at MHA in the UK offer more than employment; they provide legal migration, stable income, professional training, and meaningful work. With visa sponsorship, competitive pay, and a trusted charitable employer, this role is one of the most reliable entry points into the UK healthcare system in 2025.
If you want a career where your work genuinely improves lives and builds your own future, the opportunity starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need qualifications to become a healthcare assistant in the UK?
No formal qualifications are required. Employers value compassion, communication skills, and willingness to learn. Training is provided.
What is the average salary for healthcare assistants in the UK?
Most HCAs earn £13–£15 per hour, which equals £27,000–£31,000 annually, depending on location and shifts.
Can international applicants get visa sponsorship?
Yes. Approved employers like MHA sponsor overseas candidates through the Health and Care Worker Visa.
Is this job suitable for long-term settlement?
Yes. Many HCAs progress into senior healthcare roles and later qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).