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Being registered with the SSSC gives me peace of mind in my profession. I have a safety net in my job role since I follow the codes of practice, meaning I have a sense of security but also guiding principles in the fact that I know I have done right since the SSSC says so. It also means that my colleagues must also follow these codes, meaning their practice must be up to standard and I have the confidence in my team to perform to the highest standard.
Not only does being registered with the SSSC mean I have guiding principles of practice, but it also means I have access to a network of training opportunities and the chance to meet other people in the profession. The best way to improve your practice is by networking, talking to other workers in your sector and learning and using their ideas - that’s what the SSSC supplies. I can also track my training and progression through the use of their platform, with online open badges providing me with a skills and development pathway.
Working in a care home environment, many residents come in feeling nervous or overwhelmed with the big life change. By being registered, it gives them confidence in our ability to help them live an independent lifestyle and establishes a trusting relationship from the get go. Knowing that there is a body which regulates our practice gives them a sense of security if they have a complaint or concern and fills them with confidence that they will be listened to and supported through whatever they may experience whilst staying with us.
I remember my first shifts, right at the start of the pandemic, where I walked into the room of a resident with COVID-19. They were up all-night coughing, however, I made them a cup of coffee and had a chat with them. Although they were clearly uncomfortable, I was able to sit and chat with them to distract them, and support them when they really needed it. During a time where many were scared and staying in their homes, I was fearless whilst caring for their loved one. It will be a moment that will always stay in my mind.
I think the most important factor for the workforce for the next 20 years is support, retainment of staff and appreciation. Many people come into the workforce on a temporary basis to gain experience for another career path, as they see the profession as a dead end in their career and therefore do not stay in the jobs long.
If the support was in place to help them gain qualifications and provide a clear career pathway then there would be an increase in people wanting to work in the sector, however it is not well promoted that there are qualifications to be gained in the sector. It is difficult to maintain the positive facade when we are all exhausted from the bad press and staff shortages that the pandemic and Brexit have brought to the care sector, when we’ve been tirelessly supporting everyone’s loved ones with little support from the government. Unfortunately, clapping for carers doesn’t quite support us.
Who: My name is Llion and I’m a final year undergraduate archaeology and ancient history student with a passion for all things care and nursing. I joined the care sector during its most challenging period at the start of the pandemic and have completely changed my career path as a result!
What: My role as Senior Health Care Assistant means I lead the care staff team with the day-to-day activities that go on in the care home. From being the first point of call for staff members with any queries; to sitting with a piece of cake and chatting with the residents - I get to be involved with every aspect of their care, with every day being different! My favourite part of my role is the organisation and planning of resident wellbeing, working with my team to plan the residents' favourite activities, help them meet their personal goals, and to ensure the residents get the most out of their time with us.
My Why: I joined the care sector during its most challenging time at the start of the pandemic, and I have loved every second of my job! I get to be the smiling face the resident sees the first thing in the morning when bringing them a cup of tea, I get to be a friend to sit down with and talk about the ‘good old days’ with, but most importantly, I get to be there for the residents when they need me most. I joined Morar Living at an exciting time since the company is new and trying fresh, forward-thinking ideas with a real focus on resident wellbeing and creating memories with loved ones. However, Harbour House has become my home away from home, where the team truly cares for the residents. Getting to know residents and what is important to them, and supporting them to keep connected to who and what they love is why I choose to work in care and why I chose to work at Harbour House.
