Sally Rhodes, Registered Manager, Innovations Wiltshire Ltd
Historically carers have always been considered low skilled. For many years, it has been seen as a job that you can do if you cannot do anything else. Nothing can be further from reality, but unfortunately Care Professionals themselves often see themselves as “just a carer”.
Care Professionals, working both in the community and in residential care, are well trained and have an extensive knowledge of the role they perform. They need to make decisions that have serious repercussions. For example, in one morning they may administer medication in maybe 5, 6 or even 7 different locations. They will be constantly risk assessing situations, knowing that they are likely to be the first to see signs of infection, stroke or other life-threatening conditions in those they are caring for. They are also best placed to identify wellbeing, and signs of depression or anxiety. They need to retain information such as likes, dislikes and preferences, as well as deal with vulnerable people who place trust in the person who is providing care and support. And work under extremely difficult circumstances.
As an employer of those working in the community, I am very much aware of the challenges faced by Care Professionals. They are lone working with very little support from the medical profession. Working on their own in the community, they have to be self-reliant and confident to use their initiative.
Knowing the clients so well means that they can spot the smallest change in circumstances and can literally save a life, by identifying issues very quickly. They support a client’s wellbeing and are often a lifeline for those living in isolation, providing a safety net for families who can’t be with their vulnerable relatives all of time. They also have the ability to give detailed and accurate information and insight to medical professionals.
So why a Care Register?
Those on the register will have a current DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate. They will have taken the time and initiative to apply to the register. They will be able to showcase their qualifications and achievements. And, if they so wish – and probably most importantly – they will be able to evidence that they are a Care Professional by being on the register.
It is so important that carers feel valued and confident to call themselves professional. Over recent years, recruitment has been at an all-time low. We need to encourage school leavers to join the sector and give them the confidence that it is a viable and respected careers choice.
The role is so rewarding and, yes it can be tough, but you make a real difference to a person’s day. I asked one of our clients what is the biggest benefit of seeing a Care Professional every day. They told me that it is their only opportunity to talk out loud and be listened to on many days. Amongst everything else, a Care Professional just being present and interested may mean the world to a lonely person.
I feel the register is the first step to rebuilding the Care Sector in England and encouraging people to consider Care as a career. The register is a good news story for Care and can only be a positive step to reinvigorate the sector.
I support the Voluntary Care Professional Register. I encourage all Carers to sign up on the website – vcpr.co.uk
