Meet our colleague Diane, who tells her story of her career journey in care from carer to registered manager.
Starting out as a carer
"I previously worked in retail for 30 years at a baby boutique. After losing both my parents, I decided I wanted a career change and applied to become a care assistant. I vividly remember my first shadow shift; I sat in my car afterwards in tears, moved by the immense kindness, care, and compassion the carers showed to our clients. It was in that moment that I knew this was the job for me.
"Initially, I worried about providing personal care, but I quickly learned that it's only a small part of what caring for someone entails. I discovered that the people we care for have lived incredible lives and have so many fascinating stories to share. It truly felt like a great honour and privilege to be allowed into their homes to do our work. As a care assistant, I met many people with diverse care needs, and my goal was always to deliver the kind of care I would have wanted for my own parents.
After two years as a care assistant, I was offered a senior carer position, and later, a coordinator role. I accepted the coordinator position because I realised that while I could help my own clients on my route as a carer, as a coordinator, I could help even more people.
I then took a coordinator position with a small independent company, where I worked diligently. After a year, I was promoted to assistant manager and then manager. I was thrilled when we received a Grade 5 on my first Care Inspectorate (CI) inspection.
My journey with Cera began when I saw a post for a Registered Manager advertised, and I applied. I anticipated a greater challenge with a corporate company, and I was delighted when I was offered the job."
Working at Cera
"I can honestly say that working at Cera, I have never felt more supported. There is always someone available and willing to help. Being a Registered Manager is an amazing position that allows me to help even more people.
I also deeply appreciate the incredible people I work with. I have the best team alongside me, from the care team delivering care, to the field care supervisors, coordinators, my managers, and the recruitment and HR departments. As I always say, "there is no 'I' in team," and we truly are a great team.
Having been a carer myself, I constantly strive to find ways to support the care team and provide them with the best experience in health and social care. I also continuously look for ways to improve the care we deliver to our clients."
If anyone asks me what it's like to work in health and social care, I tell them it's the most rewarding job in the world. Being allowed to enter people's homes and care for them is truly a great honour and an absolute privilege.
