People arrive in the caring profession by a variety of routes
People arrive in the caring profession by a variety of routes and Dzawanda Mutawu feels finding a job in home care support has completed her journey.
Originally she had hoped to work on the family farm and shop in Zimbabwe but when the economy slumped the family was forced to relocate to South Africa and Dzawanda found work in a pre-school.
She gained her first experience working as a carer when her sister contracted HIV. With little health care available, Dzawanda supported her sister for ten years until she tragically died.
I had what I needed to be a carer
“I was with her until her last day and that experience led me to believe I had what was needed to be a carer,” she said.
“In South Africa I couldn’t work in the career I wanted, I was working to earn a living so when I read that the UK were looking for carers the experience of caring for my sister gave me confidence and I felt it was my journey to take.”
Dzawanda says she is enjoying her work in home care support with Caremark Leeds.
“Perhaps I’m a bit different from others but the aspect that gives me most satisfaction is the personal care,” she said.
“Helping people to get washed or showered, put on clean clothes so they are ready for the day makes such a difference to their dignity and well-being, I find it very rewarding.”
Outside of work Dzawanda enjoys nothing better than a day at the White Rose shopping centre with her daughter and son.
Contented at home and work
“We like visiting the shops and then enjoying a meal together,” she said. “My son likes McDonalds whilst my daughter prefers Nandos so we take it in turns.”
After some challenging times Dzawanda, 43, now feels contentment at home and at work.
“For this job you need to be caring, dedicated and honest and put all my energy into it,” said Dzawanda.
“I love my job and feel content. Sometimes you have to go on a journey to get where you belong.”
If you would like to find out more about career opportunities at Caremark Leeds please look at the latest vacancies on our jobs page or call us today on 0113 264 4466.