Caring can transform your life
Switching careers can seem a daunting prospect, especially when you’ve worked in the same industry for over 30 years. But it can transform your life and Clare Turville regards the move from catering to the care sector as the best decision she ever made.
Stuck in a rut in her previous job
“Looking back I was in a rut, I was being bullied and my mental health was suffering,” said Clare. “It was a big step, but now I have a job I absolutely love.”
After leaving school Clare got married and combined working in school catering with raising her two daughters. When they left home the hours became full time and when the school contracted out the meal provision she found herself employed by a private catering company.
“I decided I had to leave because of the impact the job was having on my mental health and also my physical health,” said Clare.
“I was on my feet all day which was causing painful knee problems. When I asked to be able to sit down for five minutes every couple of hours they said I’d have to make the time up at the end of the day.”
“Caremark is a fantastic company to work for”
Clare, 54, is proof it’s never too late to change your life. She joined Caremark Cheltenham & Tewkesbury in July 2025 after 32 years in school catering.
“Caremark is a fantastic company to work for, everybody has been so friendly, the day passes so quickly it’s not like work.” she said.
“My husband was diagnosed with prostrate cancer and even though I’ve only recently joined they have been so good in allowing me time off and organising flexible hours so I can take him to appointments.”
A special bond with her customers
And Clare has formed a special bond with many of her customers.
“My aim is to treat customers as I would want myself or a member of my family to be treated,” she said. “You need to be patient and have a nurturing side and when you see the positive difference you make to people’s lives the impact it brings to your own mental health and happiness is priceless.”
Clare is a person who goes the extra mile for her customers and the skills she learned in the catering industry have not gone to waste.
As part of her role with the home care support team she helps people get washed and dressed in a morning then supports with domestic tasks including preparing meals.
“One lady was worried what would happen when I was away,” said Clare. “So, I prepared some lasagne and other meals and filled her freezer, that put her mind at rest and mine.”
Clare’s advice to anyone else who finds their job is impacting their health to consider becoming a carer.
“In my old job by Saturday evening I would be feeling anxious at having to go back on the Monday,” she reflects. “Now, with Caremark, if I’m off for a few days I look forward to getting back. I only wish I’d switched 20 years earlier.”
About Caremark Cheltenham & Tewkesbury
If, like Clare, you are stuck in a rut in your current job and want a change in career direction working in a rewarding role and for a company which understands the importance of flexibility and getting the correct work/life balance, please contact us on 01242 370797, email our team or click the link below to view our latest vacancies.