What do you do?
I have worked in the social care sector since I was sixteen. I used to support older people, and discovered Carr Gomm when looking for a new challenge.
My favourite part of my job is being able to support each person according to their wants and needs. I love offering world-class tailored support. At Carr Gomm, it’s about choice – and in my time with the charity, no two people I have worked with have ever been the same.
What surprised you about working here?
How many opportunities there are to learn and develop. The brilliant learning and development programme created for staff was something new to me.
What training has helped you the most?
Three years ago I started to support a person who uses sign language to communicate. As a result, I completed the six week basic sign course and I loved it!
My favourite part of learning to sign was making videos with song lyrics, then going to work and supporting the person to sign the song. My job can be stressful at times, but seeing someone smile is very rewarding.
What advice would you give to a new support practitioner?
It’s tough in the beginning; especially if you have little experience in the sector. But stick in there – it gets easier and it is worth it.
To find out more about the responsibilities of the role read the job description.
