A career in care – I started at 18 and I’ve never looked back
Four years later, she still looks forward to going to work each day.
Four years ago, Lula started working at our supported living home in Cambridgeshire when she was 18 years old. We caught up with her so she could share her experiences so far.
I enjoy working here and look forward to going in each day.
For Lula, starting a career in social care wasn’t something she had always planned. While studying Health and Social Care Level 2 at college, she discovered that she really enjoyed the subject and began to realise that supporting other people was something she wanted to do.
“When my nan became ill, I was supporting her every day with things like washing, cleaning, medication and other tasks. After my nan passed away, I realised I wanted to look after people and support them to live as independently as possible.”
So, when Lula saw a role at FitzRoy, she applied straightaway.
Learning as she went
Starting a new job at 18 could have felt daunting, but Lula says the training and support she received helped her settle into the role and build her knowledge. “After getting the job, I completed lots of training which helped further my knowledge. I got along with all the trainers and found them to be supportive and informative.”
Four years on, she has continued to learn, both through her day-to-day work and the relationships she has built at work. And that’s one of the things Lula enjoys most about the job. No two days are the same. One day might involve taking someone shopping, while another could mean supporting someone to attend an appointment or simply spending time together.
“By working closely with the people who live here I have gotten to know their likes and dislikes and what makes them tick. I feel like I’ve built really strong bonds with everyone who lives here.”
For Lula, it’s those everyday moments that make the job so rewarding. She loves bringing her sense of humour to work, making people smile and laugh and seeing the people she supports thrive.
“My favourite thing about working here is getting to make them laugh and making sure they feel supported and safe in their home.”
A team that has her back
For someone starting their career, having people around you who you can turn to makes a big difference. Lula says she has developed a close relationship with the management team and feels comfortable speaking to them if she has a concern or needs to ask a question. Regular one-to-ones and team meetings give everyone the opportunity to talk, share ideas and stay connected.
I feel extremely supported throughout my job role, whether that’s from the support I receive from management or the wonderful close-knit team of staff I work with.
It’s a team environment where Lula feels able to keep learning, ask questions and grow her confidence.
“Go for it!”
Four years after starting her career, Lula has no regrets about choosing social care.
Lula told us: “Despite there being difficult days, which you’d have with any job, the satisfaction going home each day knowing you’ve made a difference is a reward in itself.”
Her advice to anyone who is thinking about starting their career in social care, is simple.
“Go for it! A career in social care is deeply meaningful and offers the chance to help others build better lives. No two days are the same, whether that’s taking someone shopping or to an appointment. I am incredibly grateful to have this opportunity to be working here and making a difference each day.”
For Lula, a job she started at 18 has become a career she genuinely enjoys. And if you’re looking for a job where you can learn, build relationships, have a laugh and make a difference to someone’s everyday life, it could be the start of your story too.