Georgina Kendrick has been a carer with Cavell Healthcare for 3 years. We caught up with her to find out what makes her career so rewarding…
How long have you worked in the care sector?
I have worked in care since I was 20 and have six years’ experience. I joined Cavell Healthcare 3 years ago.
What is your shift pattern?
I work 30 hours a week. I don’t have time for any more! I have 4 cats, 4 horses and 2 dogs, so I have a pretty busy household to take care of. When it comes to the horses, there is always feeding, watering, mucking out and grooming to be done, let alone having the time to ride and enjoy them!
Does your job allow you to enjoy your animals?
100% yes! Caring fits in around my life and I have to say, Cavell is really supporting in ensuring that where possible I am given shifts that work for me. I have my regulars whom I love looking after and I help out where I can, but the management understands that more than 30 hours a week doesn’t work for my personal life and they respect that.
How did you get into care and what did you think when you started your career?
I originally got into care because I was encouraged by someone from the riding school who also manages a care home. She said my caring nature would be perfect for the role. So, I gave it a go and although I was petrified on my first shift, I loved it. I started in homes, where there are always other carers around, so to then move to doing domestic care where you are often on calls on your own was very scary. However, Cavell gave me loads of support and I did lots of shadowing of more experienced team members, so by the time I was going out on calls alone, I had lots of experience.
What do you love about the job?
The relationships you make! I have built up such a special bond with so many of my clients, so calls cease to become work really. There was one lady I used to look after and we would always have a sausage roll and watch Bargain Hunt together – it doesn’t sound much but it was the highlight of our respective days. It’s having that bond, that human attachment – it is so important.
What would you say to someone considering a career in care?
Just go for it! Its natural to be scared of the unknown, but particularly with a company like Cavell Healthcare, you will get all the training you need so it won’t be unknown anymore and you will then have a career which can fit around your life.
