A change of direction

At the age of 50 Jo Bradwell decided it was time for a change of direction and switched from the financial sector to the caring sector.

One year on she still works as hard as ever but now feels more fulfilled and those that know her best have noticed a definite change.

“Mum and dad say I am a different person, a happier person,” said Jo. “They are right, I love making a difference to people’s lives.”

Jo had worked in accounts and finance since leaving college. She was drawn to the caring sector after personal experience helping a relative with mental health problems and also on the advice of a cousin who worked for Caremark.

Now she is part of the home care support team that visit clients providing a wide range of support to enable them to stay in their own homes.

“Of course, all the work has to be done however the part the clients really look forward to is that social contact, the chance to have a chat,” said Jo.

“One lady is over 100 years old, she loves watching old war films and it’s fascinating to hear her reminisce about those days.”

Part of the job is helping clients in end of life or palliative care.

“That is challenging but the most important thing is positivity and a smiley face even if you’re not smiling underneath,” said Jo.

“That lifts the mood and with end of life we look to ensure that everything is as comfortable and peaceful for the client as possible.”

Flexibility of shifts means that home carers can decide how many hours they want to work and with Jo this can often be as many as 60 hours a week.

“It’s so much more enjoyable that working in finance,” said Jo.  

“I’m out and about and meeting people, I love it so much if the office rings to ask if I can do an extra shift I usually say ‘go on then.’”