A change to a more rewarding role
Finding a job with hours that work around the demands of raising two young boys can be a difficult juggle. Kirsti Bayliss managed it with a series of cleaning and food retail roles. However, when her son Oakley joined big brother Ralph at primary school, she felt the time was right for a change to a more rewarding role. This led her to Caremark Mansfield and Ashfield.
“My sister Katie was working in the care sector and she used to tell me about it,” said Kirsti.
“I liked the fact that home are support was centred on helping people, time spent on a worthwhile cause.”
Kirsti has now been with Caremark Mansfield for five years. The flexibility of hours on offer means she gets to see plenty of her two boys, who are now aged 8 and 10.
“I start work at 9am after I’ve dropped them off at school and I’m finished by 2pm so I can pick them,” said Kirsti.
Sharing similar interests with customers
Outside of work Kirsti loves to spend time with the boys as they enjoy their bikes, scooters or playing football.
She is also a keen hiker and has explored much of the nearby Peak District. Experience that has proved helpful in her caring role.
“Many of the customers have lived in the area all their lives. They know it well and like to talk about it,” said Kirsti.
“There’s one lady I see who was a keen hiker. If I describe a place she will know it and it opens up a conversation.”
Having an open mind is key
Kirsti says the key to being a good carer is to have an open mind.
“For customers it is a chance to chat to someone. They may have interests that are different to mine but it’s important to be able to listen and appreciate what it means to them,” she said.
“For example, I have never been a church goer but to some it means a lot and they like the chance to talk about it.”
Looking to the future, Kirsti is considering taking advantage of the opportunity to take Health and Social Care qualifications. She plans to do this whilst working with Caremark.
“At the moment the work life balance suits me well and I don’t have the time to study,” she said.
“It’s good to know that in the future when the boys are a bit older it’s something I can look into.”
About Caremark Mansfield and Ashfield
If you would like to find out more about working for Caremark Mansfield and Ashfield, please view our current home care vacancies in Mansfield and Ashfield or contact us today on 01623 259779.