My name:
Emma
My job:
Senior Care Worker
Who I work for:
Millbridge Nursing Home
A bit about my job:
I am responsible for the ongoing and day to day care of residents of the care home, many of whom have been diagnosed with dementia. I am responsible for ensuring patients receive the correct medication at the correct time as well as organising staff rotas. I also deal with families of residents, to keep them informed of their how their relatives are. I also deal with social workers and social services.
How I got it / Qualifications needed
I did my GCSEs at Gaywood Park High, and stayed for a year in sixth form to improve on some of my grades. I then went on to The College of West Anglia to do a course in Health and Social Care.
After I completed the course I worked as a Care Assistant, before deciding that I wanted to re-train in Complementary Therapies. I gained qualifications in reflexology, Indian head massage, and various other complementary therapies. I was then self-employed for a period of time, although being self-employed was not sustainable. I was then offered a senior position at the Care home where I am currently employed.
I still use my skills with complementary therapies, and it’s something I can do part time, as well as my full time position as a senior key care worker.
What I earn:
£15,000 - £20,000
Anything else?
I really enjoy being able to use my skills and experience built up over the years to be a source of support to patients who have dementia, and their families. It is important that patients are cared for in the right environment, and I enjoy playing a part in their care.
I least enjoy the aspect of my job where patients die, especially when the staff have built up good relations with them and their families. I also don’t really enjoy the long (13 hour!) shifts I work, but it does give me flexibility to have days off during the week etc.
