How long have you been in your job and what did you do before?
I have always worked for RCT Council since the age of 18. I worked as an Administrative Assistant providing business support to Care and Support Teams. Working in this environment with Social Workers and Care and Support Practitioners inspired to me to work in the community and help people achieve their goals.
What does your job involve and what is a typical day like?
I visit service users with a visual impairment, hearing impairment or dual sensory loss. I undertake an assessment of their needs and identify outcomes that will help them remain independent and safe. I can provide a range of equipment and Low Vision training to a certain degree. I give advice and guidance on how to manage daily living tasks with vision loss and risk assess the home environment where adaptations maybe appropriate, such as external lighting and rails.
What’s the best thing/s about your job?
Helping people achieve goals that they thought were no longer possible.
What positives have you experienced in your career with RCT Council?
I enjoyed many years working within Business Support. The biggest positive I experienced was when I wanted to change my career path and work in the community. I was lucky enough to have a great Manager who not only understood that I needed to leave but also helped me. Through supervision and discussing options available we set out a plan which included looking for roles that were suitable and they also advised me to go on visits with current staff in an observing capacity to gain more experience and understanding. I also love the training that I have been able to go on within sensory services which has given me vast knowledge of the issues people face. I have also attended many other courses which can range from Mental Health, Physical Disabilities and Substance Misuse.
What is the best thing about working for RCT Council?
Working in a great team with good support from managers.
What would you say to someone thinking of applying for a job in social care at RCT Council?
Go for it! There is a lot to learn but you will have the support that you need and it’s a very rewarding career path.