Better late than never
Carl Milward always knew he wanted to work in the care sector, but it wasn’t until he’d spent 30 years in the retail trade that he finally got there – a perfect example of better late than never!
“When I left school there wasn’t as much scope for male carers,” said Carl. “I was already working in retail part time when I was at secondary school and so continued and made a successful career in this field.”
Carl rose to be acting manager of a major city centre store. But when that closed and he was offered redundancy he decided it was time for a change.
“I was at a crossroads in life, I wanted to do something different, something I’d always wanted to do,” said Carl.
Our longest serving male carer
He attended a six week “future carers” course run by Barnsley Council. Caremark Barnsey delivered a presentation and when he saw they were advertising for home carers he applied. That was nine years ago and Carl is now the longest serving male carer with the company.
“I found I had skills from retail and life skills that were very useful in my new job,” said Carl.
“Being able to problem solve by approaching things from a different angle, communicating with people and being able to cook and clean.”
Some customers have been with us for over ten years
Five years ago Carl suffered a heart attack. When he was ready to return to work he says found Caremark Barnsley very supportive.
“I don’t drive and so walk to customers’ houses. Caremark redrew the schedule allowing me extra time between calls,” he said. “When I’m in the office everyone asks how I am, from fellow carers up to board members. You appreciate that from an employer and in return I’m happy to do extra hours if they need me.”
Carl gets personal satisfaction from knowing he is helping to make customers as comfortable as possible in their final years.
One particular lady was 97 when she came out of hospital with family fearing she had just six months to live.
“We built up a trusting relationship, and she enjoyed her final years with a good quality of life, celebrating her 100th birthday and going on a couple more years after that,” said Carl. “There are some customers who have been with us for over ten years.”
Be prepared to go the extra mile
He sees his role as supporting not just the customers but also family members and says humour can often be the best way forward.
“One lady’s poor niece was exasperated. Her aunt hadn’t washed her hair for days and she was worried she was going downhill,” said Carl. “We were due to take her to a coffee morning. ‘I said Elsie I’m not going out with a scruff bag’ she had a good laugh and agreed to wash her hair.”
He’s clear on what it takes to be a good carer. “You need to be a caring person by nature, put others first and be prepared to go the extra mile to improve their lives.”
About Caremark Barnsley
Are you, like Carl, looking for a change of career direction? If so, please view our care jobs in Barnsley or call us today on 01226 242858.