Rachel is our Registered Care Manager and has a wealth of experience in the Care Sector having worked more recently in complex care. Her role means she is responsible for liaising with clients, families and staff, which is invaluable as it is important she matches the right staff to the needs of our service users. Her work also sees her in regular dialogue with Continuing Healthcare and Social Services as well as the families of our service users.
What got you into care in the first place?
I was looking for a job and felt the need for a change – I really wanted to do something completely different. I had considered care in the past and was worried I wouldn’t enjoy it or be very good, but I thought I should at least give it a go, so I did one shift and I was hooked!
What do you love about care?
I love going out into the community and meeting new people and listening to their stories. There are so many amazing people out there and as they get to the point where they need care at home, it is a privilege to be helping them. It is so rewarding knowing you are helping to make a difference.
How long have you been with Cavell Healthcare?
I joined the business only a year after it was first established, so it was very much still in its infancy, with a relatively small team. I loved being part of that growth – carrying out assessments and creating care plans and then matching carers to clients to build up the rounds.
How did you move to the role of Registered Manager?
Sadly, my predecessor passed away so there was an urgent need for someone with a good knowledge of the role to step up and take on management role, and I just happened to be that person. I have had a lot of support from Cavell Healthcare and some great mentoring and whilst it is a hugely busy job, where no two days are the same, I really enjoy the challenge.
What exactly does your role involve?
As Registered Manager I am responsible for running the service we offer here at Cavell Healthcare. By that I mean everything from compliance, budgeting, policies and procedures, etc. For example, we are obviously under the CQC (Care Quality Commission) and part of my role is meeting the requirements and ensuring we achieve a good rating in our inspections. We are currently awarded a Good and my goal is to achieve Outstanding status!
What training have you had for your role?
A lot!! As with all the staff, I have undergone the mandatory training, much of which is in-house. IN addition to which, I have also been taking my NVQ Level 5 in Leadership & Management. At this level, it is very in-depth and has already taken over a year. A lot of the course is evidence based, for example, I am currently in the process of writing a 3000-word document to outline my understanding of dementia.
What do you find the most challenging part of your job?
Keeping everyone happy! As any manager will tell you, keeping staff and clients happy is a constant juggling act and I am a people pleaser! I try really hard not to dump on people, whilst still delegating where needed, so there is always a balance to be had.
I also still do care calls, as I want to stay close to the very heart of what we do as a company, and I find it hard not to get attached or get emotional when clients pass away. However, it is solace to know that you have helped them in their last days, weeks, months or even years.
What would you say to anyone considering a career in care?
Whenever I am asked that, I would respond with a question – what is there NOT to like about caring for someone and being an instrumental part of making their life better. I really do think it is good for your mental health and it also keeps you grounded – it humbles you when you look at the challenges some of our clients face, which reminds me to be grateful for me health and happiness.
