The caring skills

The caring skills she learnt whilst looking after her grandmother made Florence Whati realise that a career in caring was something she wanted to pursue.

She may have been younger, and it may have been over 5,000 miles away at the family home in Zimbabwe, but Florence has never forgotten that early experience and now she aims to treat all her Caremark Kirklees clients with the same kindness she showed her own elderly relative.

It’s an attitude that has certainly paid off, with Florence being named the latest carer of the month for her dedication to the role.

“I never expected to win this,and it came as a huge shock,” said a modest Florence. “I’m so happy that people appreciate what I do.”

Florence has been working in home care support with Caremark since 2022. She says every client is different and the most important thing is to show each of them kindness.

“Some people may not be able to walk, they might need help washing, eating or with medication, each of them has a different background,” said Florence.

“They are trusting you in their own homes, they rely on you. You have to be professional to get the job done but you also cannot do this job if you are not kind.”

Florence, 44, studied for a degree in accountancy in Zimbabwe before moving to the UK.

“I never got the opportunity to use my degree. In Harare I looked after my grandmother for many years and that’s when I realised I really enjoyed helping people,” she said.

“Often they are quite lonely so if you can have a chat with them each day, listen to their stories and leave them with a smile on their face then that brings great job satisfaction.”

Florence has three children, two grown up and a 12-year-old boy. In her spare time, she likes to read novels and listen to country music with Don Williams and Dolly Parton particular favourites.  

“I like the UK, it’s very similar to Harare except for the weather,” she said.

“There’s a wonderful team at Caremark who have been very supportive to me. I’m happy and not going anywhere else, I hope to be here for many years.”