Meet Calum – From Carer to Inspirational Care Professional

Meeting with a recruiter at the job centre, they recognised Calum’s naturally caring nature, empathy and suitably to care for others. He also had extensive experience supporting his mum and managing her medications. Calum joined HFHC Midlands, undergoing initial training which supported his understanding of caring for others and developed important skills such as manual handling.

 

 

What was it like starting work at HFHC Midlands?

I was quite nervous to start working, but the Midlands team were incredibly friendly and supportive. I tried all aspects of care but preferred to work with older people.

How has your career developed?

I really loved working in care and wanted to do more to develop my career further so I completed an Access to Nursing course. I applied for University and was accepted at all 5 that I applied for. I have just completed my first year at Nottingham University, completing placements at Accident and Emergency and working in community nursing. My nursing degree is allowing me to experience so many different aspects of care and I’m really enjoying this.

I am also able to continue to complete shifts for HFHC Midlands and earn money while studying. I really like the flexibility - if I have lots of course work to do I can say I am not available, but during the holidays I can work much more.

Do you have advice for anyone returning to work after caring for a family member?

I have built my confidence back up again gradually. It can be hard work, but if you are willing to put in the effort it can be really rewarding. I now have a much bigger social circle and my whole life has changed.

Sonia Epsom, Business Development Manager for HFHC Midlands adds “Calum is a fantastic carer, incredibly reliable, earning Carer of the Year in his first year with us. The homes Calum has worked for always ask for him because of his caring nature and genuine interest in the people he is caring for. We are so proud of Calum’s success and think he will make an excellent nurse.”

If you would like to explore a career in care, come and meet Calum and the HFHC Midlands team at our Carer’s Week event on Thursday 14^th June, 6-7 pm, at the Social Care Exchange. Find out how to start a career in care or discover how you can get back into work after caring for your loved one.