Charley is not just making him exist; she’s making him live his life
“Charley is not just making him exist; she’s making him live his life. She goes above and beyond for him and doesn’t just come and do a job but thinks ahead and wonders next time I’m here, what can we do to make it better?”
These are words spoken by Lesley, the mum of one of our clients Andrew, about his Support Worker Charley Gordon.
Powerful words which perfectly sum up Charley, who has discovered a passion for making a difference through care. She has also found a role that truly suits her since joining Caremark Rotherham and Sheffield four years ago.
While she had experience in care, including residential care and traditional home care, before joining us, she says this role feels like the right fit both professionally and personally.
You never stop learning at Caremark
Tracheostomy support, PEG feeding and other tasks associated with complex care did, naturally, take some adjustment for Charley. However, she says she was greatly helped by the training she received and by learning whilst working with her clients on a day-to-day basis.
“You never stop learning because every client is different and that’s one of the many great things about the role,” says Charley.
In her four years with us, Charley has worked with a diverse client group, from little babies through to adults. In addition, she has formed bonds with them all.
Andrew is a prime example. Lesley says Charley has taken time to truly understand her son, including what motivates him, what unsettles him and how to build his trust. She plans ahead and structures their days around Andrew’s needs and preferences. For example, these include shopping trips, walks, meals out and other activities that build his independence and confidence.
Knowing you are making a difference resonates
When you hear comments like that you know are doing something which is 100% worthwhile,” adds Charley.
“I have been offered other jobs which pay more money than Caremark, but I would never leave because knowing that you’re making a difference to families really resonates with you.”
Charley says she feels well supported by the office/management team who recognise that staff need to have the right work/life balance to be happy at home and work. She also recently received a Halo staff award for her work with Andrew.
“It’s nice to receive compliments and to hear how much you are appreciated,” adds Charley.
In her spare time mum-of-three Charley enjoys spending time with her partner. They recently welcomed their first grandchild into the world, which is an extremely exciting time for them.
About Caremark Rotherham and Sheffield
If you would like to find out more about working for Caremark Rotherham & Sheffield, or are in need of complex care support for yourself or a loved one, please view our latest Support Worker vacancies or our list of complex care services.