In tribute

Every day that Caroline Gwisai goes to work she does so in tribute to the memory of her sister Primrose and father Shakespeare.

Her father had suffered a stroke and it was whilst looking after him and other relatives that she first considered a career as a carer. She gained the necessary qualifications and found jobs in a variety of placements in her home in Zimbabwe.

She came to England to be with her mother who had had to flee Zimbabwe due to political oppression. She found work as a carer and in February joined Caremark Kirklees in home care support.

Earlier this year her sister died of cancer and her father from the after-effects of the stroke. It was a difficult time for Caroline who wasn’t able to return for the funerals.

“After being used to taking care of him I had been relying on others and asking them how he was doing so I know how that feels. When my sister and father died, I decided I should dedicate myself to those I could help,” said Caroline.

“For me it is a big motivator to treat people as if they were my own family. I try to make them smile, give out positive vibes to win their trust and so make a difference to their lives.”

Caroline, 35, has three boys aged 9, 11 and 13 and appreciates Caremark Kirklees’ flexibility around hours.

“Caremark have been very good to give me plenty of hours but also breaks so I can also have time with my boys. It has been a tough time personally, but time is a great healer and also a teacher and gradually you feel stronger,” she said.

Caroline’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed and recently she was named carer of the month.

“That was so lovely, and I really didn’t expect that,” she said. “I have always tried to be professional even when going through a hard time.”

She can see up to ten clients a day and has some advice for anyone thinking of joining the profession.

“The most important thing is you need to have empathy for the situation people may find themselves in.  It’s important to appreciate that people may be in pain, or frustrated at their immobility or whatever, so you need to show patience and understanding.”