Age is no barrier to working in care
Age is no barrier to working in care and being great at your job – as 64-year-old Jill Jenkinson can testify to.
“I really enjoy my job, I get to meet lots of interesting people and it’s very rewarding to be able to help them,” said Jill.
“I’ve always been active and this job gets me out the house.”
Jill joined Caremark Mansfield and Ashfield two years ago. Before that she had cared for her mum for six years after she suffered dementia. She also had experience caring for a man she worked for who suffered a broken back.
“When I went for the interview they asked about qualifications so I told them about how I had cared for two people,” said Jill. “They told me life skills and experience were just as important and asked when I could start.”
Breaking down barriers with customers
Jill’s clients are centred on the Woodhouse area where she has lived all her life and she believes this helps to break down barriers.
“I know the people and area well, it’s history and the old buildings and shops, some of which are no longer there,” she said.
“Customers often like to reminisce so to have someone who knows what they are talking about is a good starting point.”
Jill has two grown up children and eight grandchildren she sees regularly.
“I love to take them to the park and we have daytrips to Scarborough and other places – playing with them definitely keeps me fit,” she said.
You need a big heart, compassion and be a good listener
Her advice to anyone thinking of joining the industry is not to worry about age or qualifications.
“You receive good training before you start and there is always help and advice on hand if needed,” she said. “What you do need is a big heart, compassion and to be a good listener.”
Keeley first joined the care sector four years ago but on returning from maternity leave discovered shifts available at the company she was with didn’t provide the flexibility to fit around her baby and her other three children.
“That’s when I first applied to Caremark and I found they offered flexible hours that worked for family life,” said Keeley.
“I’ve been here just under a year and I am very happy. Through choice I’ve gradually been able to increase my hours during school times and some evening and weekend work so it is full time now.”
About Caremark Mansfield & Ashfield
Caremark Mansfield & Ashfield provides a range of care services designed to support people to live independently in their own home. We can only achieve this through the work of our our amazing Care Assistants. Like Jill has discovered, age is absolutely no barrier when it comes to working in care and being a great Care Assistant. Please visit our jobs page to view our latest vacancies.