Mike shares his story about what inspired him to pursue a career in care.
Mike has been within the care industry for many years and feels it was a natural fit for him,
“I got into care work a long time ago. I don’t recall a specific motivation; I think that I was just naturally inclined to look after others. I hated bullying at school, and I did not like to see disadvantage or isolation in others.”
Mike has had a variety of different positions, across the different sectors within care, ranging from mental health to learning disabilities. Currently Mike works as a carer for Patricia Whites looking after the older population and people living with conditions.
He is enjoying his time at Patricia Whites,
“They are friendly and approachable, offering support when needed, which is vital when working in other people’s homes. As with other types of work, opportunities do arise for career development, e.g. team leadership, management, or possibly training and development. My role hasn’t changed radically over the years, however the training and approach to care has become more person centred and inclusive, which has generally led to a better level of care.”
On reflection of his career in care, Mike comments,
“In writing this, I realise that I have been doing care work for a long time. It has good and bad days, highs and lows. Sometimes it’s challenging, sometimes rewarding. I’ve dealt with end of life, but I’ve also fostered the young and helped create a future. Caring doesn’t always mean that you like everybody, but you do it to your best anyway. I don’t take anything personally, I’m philosophical, and I have a sense of humour that carries me through most things. Most people genuinely appreciate being cared for; it is something vital, something that removes barriers, something that unites us as people.”
