The little things in life make a difference to Megan • Caremark Kirklees

When it comes to providing the best possible home care, Megan Wickham believes it’s the little things in life that count.

“You are going into someone’s home and it’s important to take the time to understand their routine,” said Megan.

“Just pulling the curtain over an extra centimetre, the way they like it, can make all the difference to people’s peace of mind.”

Megan, 24, joined Caremark Kirklees in August 2023 having previously worked for four years with special needs children.

“I moved into home care because I wanted to broaden my experience and there are definitely similarities in the roles,” said Megan. “It’s people who may be vulnerable and can often be misunderstood. In both cases you have to be positive, give it your all and want to make a difference.”

Megan’s positivity has certainly made an impression and she was recently named the Caremark Kirklees Carer of the Month and praised for her dedication and willingness to go over and beyond the call of duty.

“I had absolutely no idea and missed the message that went out so it was only when a colleague congratulated me I got to know,” she said. “It was a very, very pleasant surprise and I felt very proud.”

Also proud was Megan’s grandfather, Edward, 98, who encouraged her to move into adult care after appreciating the support she provided him.

“I like to treat the clients as if they were my own relatives,” said Megan. “My grandad’s always happy to see me. He can be a bit forgetful, l but I’d happily repeat a story a thousand times to see a smile from him.”

Through choice, Megan can often work over 40 hours a week, but she recognises the importance of downtime.

“You have to look after yourself if you want to care for others,” she said. “It’s important to eat properly, get some rest and sleep and have time for yourself.”

When she’s not visiting her grandad and other relatives in Scotland, Megan enjoys long walks in the country with friends and dogs followed by a steaming mug of coffee. She’s also saving up for a holiday, with the Greek island of Santorini top of the wish list.