I became a carer late in life after working as a secretary for more than 30 years. One day at work, when I was feeling particularly lonely with only a computer for company, I picked up a newspaper and read an article entitled ‘A Day in the Life of a Carer’. I never knew such a job existed, but immediately knew it was for me. Afterall, I was already a ‘carer’. At this time, I had been married for 25 years, had brought up two daughters and we always had a menagerie in the house of dogs, rabbits, giant African snails, guinea pigs, parrots, budgies, hamsters – and we all know who ends up looking after the pets! I applied for a position with Social Services and within six weeks I was shadowing as a Resource Worker in the rural community of North Yorkshire where I live. That was 15 years ago, and I have never looked back.

Here at Hollins Hall I am doing the same job but based on site; enabling individuals to live independently in their own homes, assisting with personal care, housework and laundry, monitoring and supervision of medication, promoting social inclusion and dealing with general welfare issues.

I love my work because here at Hollins Hall I am part of a fabulous team and every day is a new opportunity to learn, grow and make a positive difference to people’s lives.