A day in the life of a carer- Michael

To start the Blog off, here is a lovely hands on account from one of our carers- Michael.

Becoming a Bluebird carer was very daunting at the beginning. I had no previous experience in the care industry. Everyone would seem to associate care with wiping bottoms and clearing up after the elderly.. But this couldn't be further from the truth...

   

Caring for people in their own homes is fantastic. Walking into somebody's home, where they are comfortable and know their own surroundings is a real bonus for the customers.

Caring for people with all sorts of disabilities is challenging, I wont lie. The job itself is not only physically demanding at times, but also mentally and emotionally demanding too. Seeing someone feeling vulnerable and low is upsetting. But being able to sit and hold their hand, or offer a shoulder to cry on is so rewarding.

Being there to help people shower and get ready in the mornings, or to take them shopping. Even just to sit and have a good old chat over a cup of tea. I could be the only person that they get to see that day, so its important to give them the attention and time they need. At the end of the day, that is why you are there.

Working all day and sometimes evenings too is difficult. Even though you do get breaks, it is still tiring. Driving from house to house to my different customers takes up a bit of time, but it also gives me time to adjust between each visit.

The appreciation you get from family and friends is overwhelming. Sometimes they just catch you as you are leaving and say "Thank you so much for everything that you do for my Dad/Mum. We have no idea how we would cope without you and all of your help." That makes it so worthwhile. That is why you are there. You are making such a big difference to your customers and their families lives.

For me, being a Bluebird Carer is the best job in the world.

Michael