Five Years with Home Instead: Ali’s Journey

What were you doing before you joined Home Instead?

I joined Home Instead during COVID to run alongside my childminding business, which I had done for the last 15 years. Childminding during COVID was very quiet, so I needed another job. Here I am, 5 years on, still working at Home Instead. I am no longer a childminder, but I have my own cleaning business, which is doing extremely well and going from strength to strength.

What inspired you to become a Care Professional?

I have always been interested in caring. My mum was a carer, and I now look after her.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy hearing the stories our clients tell me. They are amazing and priceless; I tell them they should write a book! All our clients look forward to seeing us because we might be the only people they see all day. The smile on their faces says it all! The app we use enables families to keep updated with what has happened on each visit, which is amazing, especially when some of the families live so far away.

Did you feel prepared and supported when you started your first visit?

When I first started with Home Instead, the training and support were really good.

What makes Home Instead different from other places you’ve worked?

I feel that a Care Professional is a special person, you have to be caring, kind, calm, honest, understanding and love your job. It takes a very special person to become a Care Professional.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about becoming a Care Professional but isn’t sure if they can do it?

If you are thinking about becoming a Care Professional, you will change so many people’s lives and help them to live and stay in their homes.

What’s your favourite way to unwind on your days off?

To be honest, I don’t get a lot of spare time with working for Home Instead and my cleaning business. I have a little dog, Holly, and I love to walk her. I have also made some special friends through Home Instead, whom I know I can rely on and trust. The occasional meal out is nice, and just spending quality time with my family and friends.

One fun fact about you?

I am caring, honest and fun!