Interview with Amy Collins , live in carer at ashridge home care & 2018 Outstanding Carer Award winner
Announced on 5th October at a Gala dinner in Gerrards Cross, the 2018 Outstanding Carer Award recognises the exceptional work of individuals in the care sector in the UK. The special night saw a presentation of Care Campaign for the Vulnerable’s first winner to our Outstanding Carers Award and £500 prize won by Amy Collins a carer from Ashridge Home Care . The award was proudly accepted by Amy’s mum Christina Graham.
Amy joined Ashridge Home Care two years ago , she is responsible for providing domiciliary care to her clients to maximise their quality of life as well as providing that extra peace of mind for their family members – that high quality care is always at hand. We believe that if the world had more Amy’s it would be a better place. As such we approached Amy to find out more from her experience in this role and why she chose to become a live in carer.
Tell us a little about you?
I’m Amy I live with my husband Ian and our dogs, cats and hens. I love my garden and my pets (and my husband). I’ve been a carer for many years and have many other interests, I’m a regular ceroc dancer and love to paint. I am a great crafter, I love making all sorts of things, I also love to bake.
How do you feel about winning this great award ?
It’s the icing on the cake. An already amazing job that I love with recognition and thanks – what more could I ask for! I was overwhelmed by the support of the people who nominated me, I think it’s great that organisations have taken the time to create such awards.
What’s it like, being a carer?
It’s such an important part of people’s lives and I love the variation of the job, helping people in any way possible whether that be chef, gardener, cleaner, postman or companion! I love it that it gives me the opportunity to become friends with someone regardless of the age gap.
What is particularly rewarding about your work as a carer?
Because it involves all the things that I enjoy doing and I was interested in meeting lots of wonderful people. It’s so rewarding to see someone’s mood or spirit lifted, to see a smile on their face. Its also such a pleasure to hear some of the stories and wise words, it is also rewarding when the family notice an improvement and express their gratitude for your help.
What types of clients have you looked after?
I have looked after so many different people, they are all different. I try to treat each person equally and to give them the best personal care suited to their needs. We always find something we have in common, usually our love of animals and plants – as well as cooking.
What have been your biggest challenges?
Probably when looking after someone at the end of their life, it is so sad to have to say goodbye to someone you have spent so many hours with. That has been the only downside to my job.
Would you recommend this job for your friends?
Being a carer is an extremely rewarding job. I have recommended being a carer to my friends and some are now working in care and like me love it!
Being a live-in carer is a special and a rewarding job. We treat all our carers like family. Because they are, after all, taking good care of yours. We are always keen to hear from people who are interested in joining our care team.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to brighten up someone’s day, we’d love to hear from you. Call us or send an email to recruitment@ashridgehomecare.co.uk.