Ashley

I was a self-employed musician, but due to the pandemic I lost my main source of income and started to seek out new opportunities in the health and social care sector.

Through the Step into Care programme I completed a number of different qualifications that enabled me to gain an introductory insight into many areas that are necessary when working in care.

I found the placement extremely helpful as it it allowed me to get to know the job role and what would be involved, along with the opportunity to meet the residents and my co-workers at the care home in a safe way and I was offered a paid role as a result of the placement.

As part of the team I am responsible for providing compassionate and individual care to each resident. I assist during meal times, provide any personal care requires and engage with and create a comforting environment or the individuals I care for. I enjoy the sense of community within the home and the amount of time I get to spend caring for and learning about the residents. Working in social care offers me the opportunity to be a positive force in people’s lives something I am very grateful for!

was always kept informed about my options, my placement was personalised around me thanks to the GM Employability Project Manager who as very helpful, friendly and dedicated to helping me find work. This helped provide me comfort during a difficult time for me.

This profile has been created by the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Careers Hub in partnership with Greater Manchester health and Social Care Partnership and WEA. If you’d like to find out more about career opportunities working in health and social care then email us: careers.hub@mft.nhs.uk or visit our website gmcareershub.nhs.uk