What does your job involve and what is a typical day like?
My job involves supporting staff with any issues or concerns they may have. This can sometimes be personal issues as well as work related. I work with GPs, District Nurses and Care Managers to solve any issues that service users may have. Having a professional manner and being organised is essential.
What’s the best thing/s about your job?
The best thing is getting to know people well. I spend most of my day with my colleagues and staff and it can be fun as well as busy. Getting to know the service users and their families is always a bonus especially listening to people talk about their younger years. Some of them are fascinating. Being able to reassure staff, service users and family members to see the look of relief on their faces sometimes is enough to keep you going. Just knowing I’ve helped in some way. It’s a great feeling.
The friendships you forge while working alongside your colleagues has meant a great deal to me. We support each other really well.
How long have you been in your job and what did you do before?
I have been a Supervisor for 12 years. Before that I worked in a Residential setting for 5 years as a Care Assistant. My previous role was as a Publican running my own Pubs. After finishing in the Pub Trade I wanted to work with people not machines. My sister-in-law suggested Residential Care as she already worked in one. I was dubious at first but thoroughly enjoyed my time there. After 5 years I felt that I wanted to take on more responsibilities and so applied for my current role as a Homecare Supervisor.
What positives have you experienced in your career with RCT Council?
I came into RCT with no qualifications in a social care setting. I have achieved my NVQ level 4 which I’m proud of. The training open to me has been excellent and has always been relevant to my role. I have received a lot of encouragement from my Managers to try different things. I was one of the first Medication Supervisors within Support@Home and the experience I gained whilst working in Residential Care was the basis for this. The Service is always trying to evolve to provide positive care for our service users so there is always an opportunity to get involved if you want to.
What is the best thing about working for RCT Council?
A big part of this is the security of being in work. Most of all it’s the people I work with, colleagues, staff and clients. It’s just a great place to work. The Pension Scheme is also good.
What would you say to someone thinking of applying for a job in social care at RCT Council?
Don’t think about it try it. You won’t be disappointed.