Starting a new job in a pandemic!
Starting a new job is daunting at the best of times, but changing career during a global pandemic; that takes a special type of person – just the sort of qualities we look for in our support workers! We spoke to a couple of staff who have done just that and started their career as a Support Worker this year and this is what they had to say:
Zoe – Support worker part time night staff
“OMG, I LOVE IT! “
I was so nervous on my first shift but as soon as I got there, I received such a warm welcome from Jane and my nerves subsided. I really wasn’t sure what to expect as I have never done work in this field before, so it was a true eye opener. The lads on my first shift were so nice to work with. They really explained everything and made me feel very comfortable. I think the first night has really made it a positive experience for me and each night is a continuation, I really enjoy helping the young people and making a difference.
The training I have received is second to none. There is so much information within it and the more I experience different situations the more I learn on the spot. Working within this environment really make you see the things you take for granted, and makes you appreciate things more. I am yet to find anything I dislike!
Louise – Support Worker Mayfield Children’s Home
“EVERYONE HELPS EACH OTHER OUT”
I am really enjoying my new job, I love everyone, we have a great team and the young people we look after are fantastic. What is so lovely is that all the Support Workers have a great relationship with the kids. It makes such a difference that all Support Workers really care, but it’s not just the Support Workers, it is the Managers as well, everyone has such a bond and a connection with the young people in the Home. When I looked a bit sad and bewildered after an incident, Olly took me to the side to have a chat. Staff morale is great, all of the staff work really well together, and everyone helps each other out.
Even with the more challenging children, everyone is treated the same. Everyone in the home tries to make the children feel safe and secure. Everyone tries to understand how they feel, which can be difficult as some of them are non-verbal, so we have plans in place such as PECS and sensory needs. We embrace different cultures, we have a Nigerian and Jamaican child and we devise different menus to incorporate the kids backgrounds. Things have been tough during lockdown, but everyone tries to think of fun activities so that the children can have as much enjoyment as possible”.
