Opportunity from adversity – Camilla’s Home Care story

We would like to introduce you to Camilla, a Worcester care assistant for Radfield Home Care.

Tell us about your previous care work/career background.

“I joined Radfield Home Care Worcester, Droitwich & Malvern in mid March 2020 and before that I had been a driving instructor for 4 years. At the beginning of March I could see that Covid-19 was going to impact upon my ability to continue as an instructor and that I needed to seek an alternative job opportunity that I would enjoy.”

“Even though I hadn’t worked in the adult social care sector prior to joining Radfield, I had always wanted to be a carer part-time and now was the time to pursue it. When things go back to normal I am planning on continuing both home care and driving instruction part time – both jobs fit really well together.”

 

What has inspired you to want to be involved in the adult social care sector?

“Some time ago I had a close family member that was ill and they had to go into a residential care home.  I went to visit him everyday and thought, had things been different, he would have liked the choice of staying at home and a care professional to look after him there. I was quite young at the time and I didn’t have the experience or knowledge to explore this possibility for him. The option to have this type of live in care and support at home is so important and I’m proud to play a part in providing this.“

 

Why Radfield Home Care agency?

“It offered me the opportunity to be a caregiver with all the things I needed – set hours, a clear contract and mileage pay. When I had my interview, what stood out for me was Radfield’s belief that all clients needed to have as much independence as possible. We are there as home care assistants to enable the client to continue with daily living as normal and to promote their independence.  This really chimes with me and what I personally believe in.”

 

How did you get to hear about the job opportunity?

“I researched all the local home care providers and read up about them online. I visited the Radfield website where it showed the latest care worker job opportunities in my area and I got in touch with them.”

 

What are your career aspirations?

“As a new care assistant I have been doing my initial training and look forward to exploring the opportunities to progress when they arise.  I would like to achieve a balance between my previous job and my new carer role.”

 

Do you have any inspiring photos/memories you may wish to share?

“Recently I was selected to appear on a post on our Radfield Home Care Worcester, Droitwich & Malvern Facebook page where I was able to talk about one of our lovely clients and what it feels to be part of the Radfield family. All of our clients are brilliant individuals and I love getting to know them.”

 

What do you love most about your job and working for Radfield Home Care?

“I’m now at the stage where I’ve got to know each client and how they like their care provided in the morning, lunchtime and the evening. It’s so nice to visit, greet them and treat them how they want and deserve to be treated. I make sure I have a chat, that they have a newspaper etc and it means so much to see their smile and to know that they are going to have a great day.”