“Have you ever wondered what
it would be like to become a carer with no previous experience? Then read this
excellent blog from Leigh who has recently started working with us.”
Leigh says:
I am 21 years old. My
previous employment was a sales assistant working in car parts. My work
entailed ringing customers, selling parts and taking payments. I felt that I had achieved
all I could with the company and my Nan was poorly so I would pop into her when
I could. I felt that this was something that I could do and it would be
more rewarding than my current job. I looked for care work for
six months but nothing popped up to make me think wow! I have a friend
who works for Extra Hands and she recommended me to the post. I had a
good look at the Extra Hands website and was quite impressed. I completed
an application form and had an interview. I was offered the position
there and then. I was shocked but extremely pleased. I was excited but nervous on
the first day of induction training because I didn’t know what to expect as I
hadn’t done this type of work before. Our Training Officer Justin was
really nice. I felt relaxed and wasn’t afraid to ask questions.
This really put me at ease. Everything in the training was very detailed
so when I went out shadowing I wasn’t anxious as I had been given and shown
aspects of care. I went out shadowing with different carers which was
really good to see how other people work and it gave me such a good insight
into my new role. My first couple of weeks were
absolutely brilliant and I love it. I visit people in their own homes
that need my care. I enjoy learning about the individuals and their
lives. Every time I see my service users, I am learning something else
about them and their needs which is enhancing my knowledge. I feel that I have been very
well supported by my co-ordinator as well as the other office staff and I never
feel I am being a nuisance in any way if I need some help or advice. I want to get comfortable and
more used to what I’m doing to become more knowledgeable and then I would like
very much to do a level 2 diploma in Health and Social care. In the long
term I would like to progress up the ladder. I am still young but believe
whatever my path is, I will continue to care for the elderly.
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