Becky

Carer, Learning Disability Services

I left school at 18 and was not sure what I wanted to do. As a family we had been involved in a charity holiday club for children and whilst at school I had accompanied a young woman who had been severely disabled by a car accident to go swimming twice a week. These experiences led me to think of a job in care and a family friend suggested working with Fremantle, caring for people with a learning disability. I started work as a relief carer – covering sickness and holidays – in January 2004 but quickly realised this was the job I wanted to do and applied for a permanent post as soon as I could. I had been quite nervous in the beginning but after a few shifts loved every minute. Not only was I helping the people I worked with to become more independent, but they helped me to build confidence and self-esteem.

I look forward to going to work every day and never know what to expect. I could be going to the theatre one day and the next helping someone to make sandwiches or go shopping. The chaps love going out but also like time at home to play on their x-boxes or listen to music. One of the hardest (but most enjoyable!) parts of my job is going on holiday with the residents. They certainly like to party to the early hours of the morning and than are up next morning to join in the day time activities. Staff are always ready for a couple of days to recuperate when they get back!

The job is very diverse and helping someone become a little more independent and try new challenges is a great feeling – you know you have made a difference. Fremantle provide lots of training to support you to do your job more effectively. I can say whole-heartedly that the job has exceeded all my expectations. In 2006 I became a care ambassador – visiting schools and colleges to tell people about care work and encourage them to follow in my footsteps – and I know that I made the right choice of career and want to pursue it further.