Covid-19 turned Nicky's working world upside down, and led her to Home Instead Exeter & East Devon
Nicky has a longstanding career in hospitality, and in the lead up to the lock-downs of 2020, was managing a popular local café. Covid restrictions meant that Nicky found herself unexpectedly without the benefits of socialisation and routine that an enjoyable job offers, as the café was forced to temporarily close.
Nicky found herself with an excess of spare time, leading her to volunteer at a local supported living service, working with adults with SEN challenges. This sparked a passion in Nicky, and although her role at the café resumed – albeit under new ownership – Nicky couldn’t shake the compulsion to ‘care’.
Nicky recalls the moment she spotted the online Facebook post from Home Instead, commenting “I didn’t see a recruitment ad, it was a post about the benefits of person-centred care, and how it can really help people. I just thought, that’s the kind of company I want to work for. Something resonated with me and when I put a call in and spoke to the lovely team at the office, I was sold!”
Almost three years on and Nicky is an integral member of the Care Professional team, balancing her almost full-time role with Home Instead, alongside her passion for gardening.
Nicky says, “There’s not a day goes by that I don’t enjoy my job, I love it so much. I just want to help people.”
The dedication to her role is clear, as Clients and family members will often send messages of praise for Nicky, explaining how in their minds and ours, she has gone above and beyond to provide tailor-made care and show exceptional kindness. Whether it’s through continued development of skills, via participation on advanced training such as the Dementia Bus, finding a creative way of encouraging a change of routine, organising trips to former favourite places or simply showing a genuine interest in a Clients life and history, Nicky is passionate about her role as Care Professional. From pumpkin picking to golf games, and Christmas light tours to museum trips, Nicky has arranged it all, and more!
The support doesn’t stop with our Clients either, as Nicky extends this kindness to new Care Professional colleagues, by taking part in the Home Instead Exeter & East Devon Mentorship Programme. Nicky is clear about the value of this, saying “It can be daunting if you’re new to care, because if you’re like me, the entire process was something to learn. That’s why I am always happy to offer introductions for new CP’s. The office team are great at providing that individual support too, but I think it means a lot if it also comes from a colleague in the community that can reassure you ‘It will all be OK’.”
Nicky, we are so pleased that you followed your heart and contacted Home Instead. It was certainly our lucky day!
We recognise that the application process can be daunting for some, so if you prefer to apply in person, just call by our offices at Clyst St Mary, where a warm welcome awaits.
We are an officially 5 Star Employer in Care, Age-Friendly Employer, Menopause Supporter and are committed to being Disability Confident so please, tell us what you need to succeed.