Why working in a care home is a joy
RYAN BULL began work as a care assistant apprentice last summer and is enjoying the challenge.
The 21-year- old, from Leeds, joined the apprenticeship scheme for care-home provider Anchor and is now an assistant at Teal Beck in Otley, West Yorkshire. He aims to complete his level- two apprenticeship before becoming a team leader and studying for a level-three qualification.
Ryan says: ‘No two days are ever the same, which makes this a very challenging and rewarding job.
‘I was made a care assistant in October and I’ve already completed over half of my NVQ qualification. My home manager has been really supportive.
‘I work with another apprentice who has worked alongside me from the start, which is great because we can support each other through our qualification. We have lots of activities and events in the home which I like to get involved in. What I love most about my job is the interaction with the people, seeing them smile, listening to their life stories and in general having a laugh.
‘My role is different every day, and it’s great to see the joy on a customer’s face when they join in with an activity or have a chat about their different life experiences and history.’
Hayley McKinstry, 17, was keen to work at Anchor’s Greenhive care home in Peckham, South-East London, because she knew how much her grandmother enjoys living there.
‘I have already learned so much in the first three months of the apprenticeship,’ she says. ‘I love my job and get so much satisfaction because the residents know I’m here for them and I can make them happy.’
Anita Cunningham, Anchor’s head of training, says the organisation’s apprenticeship is an extension of its focus on training and professionalising the sector.
‘Our apprentices are able to perfect their essential skills and work towards acquiring a recognised qualification to help support older people,’ she said.
‘We reward all of our care employees, including the apprentices, who have worked hard to get their level-two diploma by giving them a living wage, which amounts to £9.15 per hour in London.’