“I loved talking to the elderly from the moment I could talk!”
Today, we’re talking to Charlotte to find out why she works for Kingsway Care, what she did before and her ambitions for the future.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I was really interested in being a forensic psychologist but it wasn’t to be!
I did do a Psychology A level which was a lot of work and I really enjoyed it. I also took Health & Social Care and the course was really interesting. Then I was talking to my mum about social work and something just clicked. I knew this would be my vocation!
My mum worked with the elderly and had a real passion for her job. I realised I wanted to make a difference and help people too. She laughs, “I loved talking to the elderly from the moment I could talk!”
What did you do before you joined Kingsway Care?
I went to college and worked part-time at Marks & Spencers for two and a half years. I started working for Kingsway Care when I was 18 and I’m 19 years old now.
Why did you decide to join Kingsway Care?
I knew I wanted to work in care and I was talking to another Kingsway CareGiver that I had known since I was 12 and she recommended it.
Initially, I was a bit scared about the personal care aspect but realise the job is so much more than that. I love the companion calls and the variety of work. It’s more about building relationships with Clients, getting to know them, their interests and having fun.
Do you have a good work / life balance?
I have loads of time off to see friends and family. I love going out to eat, the gym and baking. I started baking as stress relief during my A levels. My friends and family regularly ask me to bake for them. Last week, one of the Kingsway Care’s Clients even asked me to bake a cake for her CareGiver’s wedding anniversary! I made this Biscoffi cake because we knew it was Kerry’s favourite!
I made this Biscoffi Cake for Kerry’s wedding anniversary.
Do you have a Care Certificate / Care Qualifications?
I have completed all the course work for the Care Certificate and now I’m just waiting to be observed on the job. I’ve also got a level NVQ 3 in Health & Social Care.
What is a typical day like?
No day is the same as every day is so varied. Calls range from personal care to companionship. I never experience a feeling of déjà vu!
What challenges do your Clients have and how do you help them?
Being a CareGiver really makes you appreciate life and to be thankful for what you have got!
Dementia is one of the biggest challenges. Clients can get anxious and so need lots of reassurance and talking, to make them feel at ease and understood.
The same goes for those with mobility issues. You need to let Clients know you’re there for them and able to support them with confidence.
The work is rewarding but can be heart-breaking at times. Being professional and focusing on the Client rather than your own feelings is key. It’s best to deal with your own emotions outside of the Client’s home before an issue or concern becomes too overwhelming. The Kingsway Care office team are always there if I need to offload without breaking confidentiality.
Being a CareGiver really makes you appreciate life and to be thankful for what you have got!
What do you enjoy about your job?
“The stories that the Clients tell me.”
When visiting a Client you get to know what they like and you can have a real laugh with them and build up a great working relationship, that’s the bit I love most!
Have you progressed in your role / what are your ambitions?
I’m going to university to do a degree in Social Work and can still work as bank staff for Kingsway Care.
I am so much more confident now! When I first started I was quite nervous and shy and worried I would do something wrong. Watching other CareGivers on shadow visits has really helped build my confidence and knowledge.
In September, I will be going to Chichester University to do a BA (Hons) in Social Work. It’s a three year course and I can still work as bank staff for Kingsway Care.
Anything else you would like to say about working for Kingsway Care?
It’s a very positive and supportive working environment. I can call the office any time if I feel unsure or need advice. The management team are all lovely with friendly faces.
Any advice for someone that would like to become a CareGiver?
Just do it! There is not one part of me that regrets joining Kingsway Care. Bite the bullet and go for it! It’s the most spontaneous thing I’ve ever done and I am so glad I did.
