A Longstanding Career in Care

Nicola has worked in adult social care for over 20 years and has been part of the St Martins Care team for more than 10 of those years. Although she briefly left to try a different career path, she quickly realised it was not for her and returned to Windermere Grange.

Reflecting on this, Nicola says, “this is my home”.

Progressing at St Martins Care

Nicola is a great example of the career progression that is possible in adult social care and within St Martins Care. She began her career as a Care Assistant with no formal qualifications. During this time, she achieved her NVQ Level 2 and NVQ Level 3, which enabled her to progress to an Acting Senior role for a year before being promoted to Senior Carer with her own team.

In 2018, Nicola moved into the role of Deputy Manager and continues to develop further in her career.

When asked why she chose to work in adult social care, Nicola explains: “I first started my care worker position in 2000 as I felt I could make some changes to the lives of those who required 24 hour support, and implement continuity and structure for those we support.”

Continuing to Grow

Nicola has recently completed her NVQ Level 5 in Management and Leadership and believes there are always opportunities to progress a career with St Martins Care.

“I feel I can improve the quality of care for those we support at Windermere Grange care home, and that we can maintain and develop a comfortable homely setting for those who reside here. We want to create a real ‘home from home’ experience. I feel good structure and support for those who reside at Windermere Grange is vitally important so that we are able to stimulate and motivate those we support, encouraging them to remain as independent as possible.”