Care Professional Spotlight – Meet Jo
Jo turned her personal loss into purpose. For 12 years at Home Instead she’s been supporting families, sharing stories, and making a real difference every single day.
“My care journey started back in 2009 when I helped look after my dad, who was sadly terminally ill at just 60. A few years later, I cared for my mum, who became terminally ill at 56, and in 2019, I lost my little sister to breast cancer at just 40. Now, having no parents or grandparents and losing such a large chunk of my family, it’s just nice to be part of other people’s families and help and support where I can. Lots of families have gone through similar situations, so it’s sometimes nice to share our experiences – however good or bad.”
For Jo, care work also opens up a whole social world. “You meet family members, neighbours, cleaners, gardeners, it’s a lovely way to make new friends and meet so many new people.”
Her career in care began 16 years ago. “I worked for a company that only gave us 30 minutes per visit and no travel time. It was very stressful, however much I loved the job and the clients. When I joined Home Instead 12 years ago, a member of the office team had to remind me to slow down, because I suddenly had an hour or more for my visits and proper travel time. It was such a lovely change, and it’s something I feel all care companies should do. It makes such a difference, not just for us as Care Professionals, but for the clients too.”
That extra time has allowed Jo to build lasting bonds. “I’ve recently got a new client who was the sister of a client I supported seven years ago, the family remembered me after all this time and asked for me specifically, which was really lovely.”
Outside of work, Jo enjoys life on her husband’s small family farm. “Driving the tractors and cuddling the piglets is such fun! I even took one of our previous clients to see the piglets a few years ago; it really made his day.”
For Jo, the role is truly rewarding: “Every day with Home Instead is different. It’s never boring, and I’ve never dreaded getting up or going to work like I did in previous jobs. Having the time to give proper care and support makes all the difference.”
If Jo’s story has inspired you and you’d like to find out more about becoming a Care Professional with Home Instead, please get in touch on 01473 272301 or simply click the button below to apply.