Over the past 35 years, my career path has been incredibly diverse. At the age of 15, I began my journey working in a nursing homes , where I provided care to residents facing a variety of health challenges, including cancer, Parkinson's disease, Multiple sclerosis, Motor neurone disease, Dementia/Alzheimer's disease, and end-of-life care. I received training in convene, catheter, colostomy, incontinence, and pressure area care, as well as assisting with personal care tasks such as bathing, showering, dressing, and feeding. I am skilled in the operation of hoists, ensuring safe and effective use when assisting individuals.
Following this, I transitioned into the role of a community carer, supporting individuals of all ages to maintain independence in their own homes. I collaborated closely with social workers and doctors, providing emotional support to family members during challenging times. Subsequently, I dedicated years to caring for elderly individuals with dementia/Alzheimer's disease during night shifts for Hampshire County Council.
I have since worked as a night support worker, providing care to adults and children with learning disabilities and autism, including administering medication and buccal for epilepsy, as well as updating care plans and risk assessments. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work in a family centre, where I conducted residential and community-based parenting assessments. In this role, I provided evidence-based support and extensive parenting tools to families and their children during 12-week placements, while also assisting individuals dealing with mental health issues, domestic violence, drug, and alcohol-related challenges.
I have also had the opportunity to lone work at night in various different retirement extra care housing services for people with dementia and adults with Mental health conditions, Physical disabilities and Sensory impairments.
The majority of my work has always been within the health and social care sector as this is where I feel I can really make a difference to the families and the people I care for. My focus has always been person centred, to promote peoples privacy, dignity, independence and choice, to ensure the highest quality of life for those I care for, always treating them with the utmost respect that they so rightfully deserve.
I love the work that I do!