Meet the team… Rachael

Rachael’s career in care on the Isle of Wight began just under eight years ago when she came to the end of maternity leave with her job in hospitality, but didn’t want to go back because of the long, inflexible hours. Instead, she followed a friend into the care sector and hasn’t looked back.

I love my job! Providing clients with care so they are able to stay in their own homes is very rewarding. I really enjoy talking to clients about their different life experiences and building positive and professional relationships.

My day-to-day job varies, from supporting clients with personal care to administering medication, taking clients shopping, supporting their independence, or providing some respite to family members by sitting with their loved one, so they are able to take time away when they need it.

I sometimes have the responsibility of having new carers shadow me as part of their induction process so they can familiarise themselves with the role and responsibilities, plus I occasionally take the on-call phone at weekends.

Getting old can become very confusing and upsetting for some clients, so being empathetic and understanding is very important. You also need to be patient; clients can become very confused and uncooperative at times, so it is important that as a carer you do not show frustration towards them, but instead be supportive so they feel safe and understood.

Being respectful is also a very important quality. A client may no longer be able to do the things they once did, but it is very important that you connect with them as a person and not as someone who is no longer able to look after themselves. It’s essential that you treat all clients as individuals. And of course, you must also be reliable. People are counting on you to show up on time; medications may need to be administered at certain times and showing up late to care calls can have a negative effect on someone’s wellbeing.

I’ve only worked for Nobilis for a short amount of time – I originally began my career in April 2013 with D Care, which was bought by Nobilis last year, but it is already supporting me in my aim to progress in the care sector. I have just started my Level 4 diploma in health and social care and have also been put forward for the position of Team Leader.  I think it’s great that Nobilis gives all employees the opportunity to further their careers.

When I’m not working, I spend most of my time with my partner and two children. We have just bought our first home together, so home improvements are a big part of life at the moment.