How did you start your career in care?
I moved into care 6 years ago from the hospitality industry. It was intentionally a stepping stone into nursing as I thought it would be good experience when applying for college courses and university. I enjoyed what I was doing so I stayed here and have progressed into different roles.
How have you progressed since starting in care?
I started in home care as a care assistant, progressed to a Senior care assistant position, then went into the customer care team in the office. It’s good because we still got to go out and do care even as office-based staff, so we were still hands on with our clients. A few months ago, I applied for the registered manager position, and I had my CQC interview last week. It was never what I expected and I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to progress here.
What qualifications have you achieved?
I have had a lot of training including MAPA training, Level 3 in Health and Social care and I have just enrolled to do my Level 5 qualification. There are always different courses going on. My manager has even developed a registered manager training course. It’s not just for myself but for others in the company so that they can learn the processes and leadership skills for their own career development. We take on a lot of specialist care as well so I have had the opportunity to do PEG training and different pump feeds, so that’s always quite interesting to learn new skills. The care company I work for are very good at picking up on areas that are ideal for you to develop in. You often get some carers who are confident with the areas they feel they would like more training in, especially when they have a new service user with complex care needs. If there is a need for it then the training is offered. The support you get here is pretty unique; you do not get that everywhere.
Why do you love working in care?
It is about making a difference. I love going out on Christmas morning, to see people who might not get to see anyone else that day. It is very rewarding knowing you are making a difference to somebody else’s day. When I began working in care, I didn’t realise how rewarding it would be when you get to know these people, their families, and how much your care and support means to them… it may be a really small thing that we are doing for them which turns out to be a big deal for them, and could make a major difference to how their day goes.
What is the most challenging part of your role?
The constant demand for care and the increase in complex needs. It is good as it grows our skill set to deliver that care but even that comes with its own pressures of ensuring we have an effective team ready.
What would you say to someone who wants to work in care but has hesitations?
It is hard work. You need to be realistic about that but it is really rewarding. Sometimes people come in thinking it is an easy job and are shocked by how challenging it can be. It’s emotional as well but the reward from helping people makes you value what you do.