Working as a Care Assistant at Anchor Care Homes is a deeply rewarding career choice. Not only do you get to make a real difference in the lives of elderly residents, but you also join a supportive, professional environment where your skills are valued and nurtured. The role typically involves assisting residents with daily activities such as personal care, medication support, companionship, and maintaining a safe living environment. In the UK, the average salary for a Care Assistant ranges from £19,000 to £23,000 per year, depending on experience and location, with opportunities for progression into senior care roles or specialised care areas.
Preparing for your job interview at Anchor Care Homes is essential to demonstrate your compassion, competency, and commitment to high-quality care. Below, I, Jerry Frempong, with over 25 years of experience in career coaching, provide 25 detailed interview questions and answers, including practical tips, the STAR method, and guidance to ensure you present your best self.
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
This opening question is your chance to highlight relevant experience and personal qualities. Focus on your care experience, empathy, and reliability.
Answer Example:
“I have spent the past three years working in elderly care, assisting residents with daily activities and providing companionship. I take pride in my patience and ability to connect with residents, ensuring they feel valued and supported every day.”
2. Why do you want to work at Anchor Care Homes?
Employers want to see your motivation and knowledge of the company. Mention their values, reputation, and your alignment with them.
Answer Example:
“Anchor Care Homes is renowned for its person-centred approach to care. I admire the dedication to creating a warm and safe environment for residents, and I want to contribute to this mission with my skills and compassion.”
3. What does good care mean to you?
Focus on empathy, professionalism, and resident well-being.
Answer Example:
“Good care means treating every resident with dignity, understanding their unique needs, and creating a safe and comfortable environment where they feel respected and valued.”
4. Describe a time when you dealt with a challenging resident.
This is a competency question. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Answer Example:
“Situation: A resident with dementia became agitated during mealtimes. Task: My goal was to calm them and ensure they ate properly. Action: I spoke softly, offered favourite foods, and gently guided them. Result: The resident calmed down and finished their meal, showing trust in my care.”
5. How do you handle stressful situations?
Employers want to know you remain calm under pressure.
Answer Example:
“I prioritise tasks, stay organised, and remain calm. I also communicate with colleagues to ensure we provide consistent, effective care, even during busy periods.”
6. Can you work flexible hours, including nights and weekends?
Show your flexibility and reliability.
Answer Example:
“Yes, I understand the importance of consistent care and am willing to work evenings, nights, and weekends to support residents and the team.”
7. How do you maintain confidentiality?
Emphasise professionalism and understanding of care ethics.
Answer Example:
“I follow data protection policies, only share resident information with authorised staff, and always respect residents’ privacy and dignity.”
8. Give an example of when you went above and beyond for a resident.
Use STAR for a strong impact.
Answer Example:
“Situation: A resident was feeling isolated during the holidays. Task: Help them feel included. Action: I organised a small festive gathering and spent extra time engaging with them. Result: The resident expressed happiness and gratitude, feeling part of the community.”
9. How do you handle a resident who refuses care?
Answer Example:
“I remain patient, listen to their concerns, and try alternative approaches. I respect their choices while gently encouraging necessary care, always prioritising safety and dignity.”
10. What skills make you a good Care Assistant?
Highlight both technical and interpersonal skills.
Answer Example:
“Compassion, patience, teamwork, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. I also have practical experience with personal care, medication administration, and supporting residents’ wellbeing.”
11. How do you prioritise tasks during a busy shift?
Answer Example:
“I assess the urgency of tasks, plan my schedule, and communicate with colleagues to ensure essential care is delivered efficiently while still providing quality attention to each resident.”
12. Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.
Answer Example (STAR):
“Situation: Our team had to reorganise care plans for new admissions. Task: Collaborate effectively. Action: I coordinated with colleagues, shared updates, and ensured smooth transitions. Result: All residents received continuous care without disruption.”
13. How do you ensure residents are engaged and active?
Answer Example:
“I encourage participation in activities, offer creative options suited to their interests, and ensure that residents have social interaction, physical activity, and mental stimulation daily.”
14. What would you do if you witnessed a colleague not following care procedures?
Answer Example:
“I would address the situation professionally, remind them of correct procedures, and report to a supervisor if necessary, prioritising resident safety and wellbeing.”
15. How do you deal with emotional stress at work?
Answer Example:
“I reflect on my experiences, speak with supportive colleagues, and practice self-care outside of work to maintain resilience while providing the best care.”
16. Can you describe a time when you had to adapt to change?
Answer Example (STAR):
“Situation: New electronic care records system introduced. Task: Learn and implement effectively. Action: Attended training and supported colleagues. Result: Transition was smooth, and care documentation improved.”
17. How would you handle a resident with challenging behaviour?
Answer Example:
“I stay calm, observe triggers, use de-escalation techniques, and work with colleagues to find strategies that maintain safety and dignity.”
18. Why is teamwork important in a care home?
Answer Example:
“Teamwork ensures residents receive consistent, high-quality care. It allows staff to support one another, share knowledge, and respond effectively to residents’ needs.”
19. What do you know about health and safety in care homes?
Answer Example:
“Health and safety includes infection control, safe moving and handling, risk assessments, and following protocols to protect both residents and staff.”
20. Can you describe a time you received positive feedback from a resident or family member?
Answer Example (STAR):
“Situation: A resident’s family expressed concerns about communication. Task: Improve interaction. Action: I implemented regular updates and involvement in care. Result: The family was reassured and grateful for the attentive communication.”
21. How do you support residents with dementia?
Answer Example:
“I provide consistent routines, clear communication, patience, and activities that stimulate memory and engagement, always maintaining dignity and understanding.”
22. What are your career goals in care?
Answer Example:
“I aim to develop my skills further, potentially moving into senior care roles, while continuing to provide compassionate, person-centred care to residents.”
23. How do you stay up to date with care standards?
Answer Example:
“I regularly attend training, read professional guidelines, and participate in workshops to ensure I am knowledgeable about the latest care practices.”
24. Do you have experience with medication administration?
Answer Example:
“Yes, I am trained in safe medication administration and documentation, always following protocols to ensure accuracy and resident safety.”
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer Example:
“Can you tell me more about training and development opportunities for Care Assistants at Anchor Care Homes?”
General Interview Coaching Tips for Care Assistants
Prepare using the STAR model for competency questions: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Do research on Anchor Care Homes and their values.
Dress appropriately and arrive on time.
Be positive, empathetic, and confident.
Avoid negative comments about previous employers.
Practice common opening and closing questions.
Follow up with a thank-you email or message after the interview.
For personalised guidance, professional interview training, or interview coaching online, booking a session with a dedicated interview coach can dramatically improve your job interview preparation and increase your confidence.
Remember, preparation is key. By practicing answers, using the STAR method, and showcasing your compassion, reliability, and skills, you can excel in your Care Assistant interview at Anchor Care Homes. Interview coaching is a powerful investment in your career success.
