Career to make a difference

Slough resident Jon Taylor had spent the last 20 years working as a nightclub general manager, but once Covid hit and the nightclubs closed, things changed.

He found himself looking for a role in which he could use the skills he had acquired during his long career in hospitality.

Jon has cared on and off for his father who has Parkinson’s and terminal cancer and when he saw a vacancy for a Community Care Worker he knew he could help to make a difference to clients’ lives.

He said: “Coming out of my comfort zone has helped me to see we can help people in ways that I couldn’t see before. Not only physically, but by being there for someone when they need it the most. It’s about accepting different environments and providing dignity, choice and respect to people at all times.

“There aren’t many male care workers out there, but it’s a good job that can lead to further opportunities if that’s what you’re looking for.

“For me it’s important to ensure that the people I care for feel relaxed, happy and comfortable, while keeping as much of their independence as possible.”

Since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, a spotlight has been shone on the amazing work of social care staff throughout our communities.

Local authorities and adult social care providers have worked together to ensure that despite all the challenges, there is a really strong local workforce to help those most in need to stay safe.
 
There are always great opportunities in the adult social care sector, whether for young people starting out in their careers or for those with valuable transferrable skills and experience from other industries who are wanting to make a positive career change.

Unlike other sectors that have been hit by the pandemic, there continue to be lots of job opportunities within adult social care in Berkshire. These include supporting older people who may be frail or have dementia, or people with learning disabilities or mental health problems. These job opportunities are in different settings, including supporting people in residential care or to remain living in their own homes. Some of these positions offer very flexible hours and suit people who may not want to work nine-to-five.

Sally Kitson, Strategy and Partnership Manager, Adult Social Care, said: “Working in adult social care really is a career that makes a difference to other people’s lives. It’s been highlighted throughout this pandemic how important carers are to our community and residents, and what a rewarding and flexible career it can be.”

Visit Berkshire Opportunities, a website delivered by Thames Valley Berkshire LEP, to find out about live job vacancies, apprenticeships, Further Education and Post 16 courses and training opportunities, as well as local career path options, including adult social care opportunities.

Berkshire Opportunities is a free service helping local job seekers, students and residents to make informed career decisions, and it was designed to deal with challenges brought about by the Covid pandemic.

For more information on careers support and guidance please visit  Adviza or National Careers website.

Slough Borough Council is working in partnership with other local councils, Jobcentre and Berkshire Opportunities on the Career to make a difference campaign.

Published: 23 March 2021