Lottie, Branch Manager

Before working in care I was a Chef and worked in a very busy kitchen which I enjoyed. However, from a very young age I felt that my calling was to work in a care setting. I met my current boss when she used to come into the restaurant where I worked. She told me about a new care company she was setting up and would I like to apply, it just felt right so I did.

I started in 2012 but had always had a caring role in my personal life, from looking after my younger siblings to helping my grandparents.

I am a Branch Manager for live-in care at Guardian Angel Carers and my job is to keep people in their own homes with the support from a live-in carer. I also make sure that we are compliant with our regulator CQC and to manage the carers and clients. This includes assessments, reassessments, planning rotas, raising a safeguarding if required, liaising with other health professionals and making sure that everyone is getting the care and service they need.

I enjoy the satisfaction I get from helping people stay in their own home, I enjoy seeing people happy and living the best life that they can.

I think one of the main skills cannot be taught and that is to care and be compassionate. Life experience also goes a long way as well as the desire in wanting to help people. I have a positive, open and honest relationship with my clients.

I’ve received amazing support from my employer. I’ve attended numerous training courses resulting in many qualifications and have an NVQ Level 5 in Health and Social Care.

I have already progressed in the care sector from being a carer to a Branch Manager and I’m still progressing. You never stop learning in care and I think my career ambition is to one day set up my own dementia village care home.

For anyone thinking about working in care I say go for it, it’s rewarding and satisfying and really teaches you about life. You will meet so many amazing people with amazing stories to tell, you won’t regret it. It’s not always easy but the pros far outweigh the cons.

Inspired by Lottie’s story? Find your role in care today!