The vital role of carers

Debbie Briggs came to fully appreciate the vital role of carers when she helped her mum look after her father in his final years.

Though Debbie had studied health and social care as a teenager, her first job after leaving college was with a riding school and after various other roles she worked for ten years with a picture framers.

“When dad was ill I saw how difficult it was for mum to get help and then the difference that help could make,” said Debbie. “It was then I decided I wanted to give a bit back, have a job that made a difference.”

Debbie heard about a vacancy from her daughter Shannon who was working in the care sector at the time. She applied successfully and then later moved to Caremark Kirklees in home care support.

“I was 39 at the time and had been at the picture framers for ten years so it was a big step to switch careers,” said Debbie. “I’m glad I did though, I really love the job, being out and about, helping people. It’s so nice to see the smile when you walk through the door.”

Home care support can be challenging, both physically and emotionally with some clients in terminal conditions.

“It can be upsetting became the line between career and friend is very fine,” said Debbie. “Dealing with that is part of the job. I have two dogs I like walking to wind down and I keep tropical fish which I find very therapeutic.”

Debbie has certainly made an impact with Caremark and after just six months with the company was named carer of the month.

The award citation praised Debbie for going out of her way to help clients, her attention to detail and embodiment of the Caremark values of kindness, professionalism and reliability.

“It really was a lovely surprise to win the award, that’s not why you do the job but it is nice to be recognised in that way,” said Debbie.