Poppy, Care Assistant

I worked in hairdressing for 7 years but always knew I wanted to work in care. I was furloughed from my job at the start of the coronavirus pandemic which gave me the opportunity to apply to work in care.  After my initial training I’m now fully working as a carer.

So far, I’m absolutely loving it! It’s a beautiful job that’s really energising and fulfilling. It gives you the opportunity to meet incredible people and hear incredible stories. I really feel like I’m putting something into society. After a day working in care I always go to bed with a smile on my face.

There isn’t really a typical day as there’s so much variety working in care. But generally, I’ll go into someone’s home and make them breakfast, a cup of tea, have a chat and check that medication has been taken. A client may need a bed bath in which case I would be with another carer to do that. I do general domestic duties and sometimes personal care. I’ve also used my hairdressing background and cut my clients hair – one gentleman was so grateful. Sometimes I go out for walks with my clients.

My employer has been so supportive. They not only care for the clients but for their staff as well. The training has been really good, my employer makes sure I’m comfortable with everything. I can always contact my colleagues if I need support, we use a group chat app to keep in touch with each other.

I’ve learnt a lot about life since working in care, it really puts things in perspective. If you’re a people person and have lots of empathy just take a deep breath and go for it, you’ll gain so much.

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