Even carers need support at some stage
Even carers need support at some stage. For Caremark Mansfield and Ashfield Field Care Supervisor Kerry Craig that moment came when she developed a brain aneurysm.
“Caremark have been marvellous, whenever the headaches have been too bad they have given me time off without ever making me feel guilty,” said Kerry.
“That flexibility of hours means we can balance most people’s work/life needs.”
The vital role carers play
Kerry says she first became aware of the vital role carers play when they tended to her late cancer-stricken stepfather. Then, they cared for her mother when she was taken ill.
She went through a series of jobs after leaving college including as a mechanic with the ambulance service. However, being a carer was something she often thought about. When health issues meant she could no longer be a mechanic she applied to Caremark.
“I think the thought of delivering personal care had always put me off but actually it’s easy, you come to see it as a part of the job that becomes automatic and no big deal,” she said.
“What is amazing is that the little things you can do make such a difference. For instance, just making someone a cup of tea and chatting, doing a bit of tidying up or bringing them a magazine, people are so grateful.”
Promoted within three years
Kerry has certainly made an impression in her three years with Caremark. She’s now studying for the Level 3 Heath and Social Care and has been promoted to Field Care Supervisor.
“Before I joined Caremark I hadn’t realised how many people rely on carers,” said Kerry. “Some don’t have anyone else and if it wasn’t for our visits they would have no social contact and possibly fall through the system.”
Carers are often the first people to notice something isn’t right with a client. They see that clients aren’t their usual selves and that can be because of an infection or other factors.
“These are all noted and part of my FCS role is to engage with GPs to ensure these red flags are checked out and if necessary a new care plan drawn up with additional support.”
Kerry also provides support to staff and carries out observations to ensure clients receive the best care possible.
She describes care work as the hardest job she has done and also the most rewarding. She believes not everyone is cut out for it but urges anyone interested to give it a go.
“We can provide anyone with the necessary skills but then it comes down to whether caring is within you, whether it is a natural part of your make-up, no-one can teach that,” said Kerry.
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.