Carer wins recognition

AN Aldershot carer was recently named Right at Home’s CareGiver of the Month, less than two years after suffering personal tragedy.

Jenny Hagan lost her husband Joe to bowel cancer after caring for him for three years following his diagnosis.

She was left to care for the couple’s four children on her own, but enjoys caring for people, and was urged by Joe’s sister to pursue her ambition of a career as a carer after looking after him so well.

“I have wanted to help and care for older people since I was 18,” said Ms Hagan. “But because I couldn’t read or write, no-one would employ me.”

When she replied to an advert for Right at Home and was given an interview, Jenny encountered a different attitude to her situation.

“I told them straight away that I couldn’t read or write but they didn’t see it as a problem,” said Ms Hagan. “In fact, they’ve been so supportive – giving me a chance and believing in me – that I’ve now got my qualification.”

Right at Home’s support has enabled Ms Hagan to earn an NVQ2, as well as start work towards an NVQ3, and she is really enjoying her job.

She said: “If you enjoy making somebody feel safe, secure, loved and cared for, then you should consider becoming a carer – I absolutely love it.”