Ruby studied Health and Social Care at EKC Ashford College and now works within the care sector at the Martello Learning and Skills Centre in Folkestone.
We sat down with her to talk about placements, her current role, and her advice for students starting out in care.
Q: Where are you working now, and how did you get started?
A: I’m currently working at Martello Learning and Skills Centre, which is part of the CareTech Community Services. I started with a placement there while I was doing Health and Social Care at college and really enjoyed it. I stayed in contact with Siobhan (the manager), and when a job came up, I applied!
Q: What kind of things do you do in your role?
A: Every day is different. We support the clients to do a variety of activities during their day including cooking, gardening, art, music, and garden walks. We support people with complex needs, so every day depends on who you’re working with and what they want to do. Some clients need more assistance than others, so we have to adapt to what they need. You’re always doing something different, and I like that.
Q: What skills have you learnt since working at the Centre?
A: Quite a few actually! I’ve done my first aid and Mabo training (that’s about managing behaviour safely). But I’ve also learned a lot about how to talk to people. I used to be a little anxious so had a habit of talking over clients, now I’ve learnt it’s important to actively listen, and not talk over them.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: Watching the people we support progress. It’s really rewarding to see them enjoy life more and learn new things. Even small changes are nice to see.
Q: Is this something you want to keep doing in the future?
A: Definitely. I’d like to go further and maybe become a Behaviour Specialist. I like supporting clients with behavioural difficulties. I like making an impact on how they can self-regulate and manage their emotions. Becoming a Behaviour Specialist would be a long process and probably expensive, but my manager thinks I’ve got the potential. She said she’d help push for it when the time comes, so that sounds positive.
Q: What advice would you give someone starting out in care or doing a placement?
A: Think about your answer before you speak. You don’t have to reply the second someone stops talking. Take your time. Don’t panic. Just pause, think, and then answer.
Q: Anything else you’d say to students considering a career in the Care sector?
A: Care work isn’t for everyone, but if you enjoy helping others just give it a go! You won’t know what it’s like unless you do it. I’m sure once you’ve given it a go, you’ll realise how different and rewarding each day can be.
Has Ruby inspired you to consider a career in the Care sector? Explore our Health and Social Care courses today.
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