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Hello! I'm Diane Wood Warrington Branch
Hello! I'm Tracey Crook Swansea Branch
I started my journey with Helping Hands in April 2020, right at the start of the Covid pandemic. I had never worked in care before, but I took the leap and applied for a role as a carer. From the moment I began, I knew this was the job for me.
I joined Helping Hands in September 2021 after working in hospitality. Covid and caring for my parents, both of whom had dementia, inspired me to reassess my career goals and take the leap into care.
In February 2022, an email went out to all carers, inviting anyone interested to spend a day in the branch answering phones and getting a feel for office life. I jumped at the opportunity and was lucky enough to be chosen. From that point on, I worked in the office every Monday, handling calls and taking notes. Then, in August 2022, a full-time Care & Training Practitioner (CTP) position became available. Along with two other candidates, I applied, and in September I received the call to say I had been successful. I enjoy the compliance aspect of the role, checking in with customers to ensure they are happy with the care they’re receiving, carrying out care reviews with families, and making any necessary updates to care plans. I love running RAD days and introducing potential new carers to the role, showing them what a difference they can make. For anyone considering a CTP role, my advice would be to have patience, there’s a lot to learn. Outside of work, my favourite thing is catching up with my two grown-up daughters, who live in North Wales. To be a great CTP, I believe you need strong communication skills, a good understanding of the carer role, and knowledge of moving and handling as well as medication. Most importantly, you need to be able to work as part of a team, because when we support each other, we make the biggest difference.
At a jobs fair, something about Helping Hands stood out and I knew it was the right choice. I spent two years as a Visiting Carer, a role I loved, but I wanted to develop further. I missed my first chance to apply for a branch role but when another opportunity came up in November 2023, I didn’t hesitate and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. What I love most is staying connected to customers and their families while growing personally and professionally. It’s the best of both worlds! Three words for a good day? Kindness, laughter, positivity. Thinking of applying? Go for it! If it’s not for you, you can always return to being a Visiting Carer, but it might just change your outlook completely. I work for Helping Hands because I’ve found my people. They make a difference in my life every day, whether they realise it or not. Outside of work, I’m a wife and mum to four amazing kids. I recently married my bearded best friend of 15 years! I love music, caravan trips, open-air adventures and weekly kitchen discos. To be a great CTP, you need organisation, communication, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a big personality always helps!
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