Positive personality

Cerys Cartwright certainly has a winning smile – her positive personality has led to her being named the Caremark Kirklees Carer of the Month.

Cerys joined our team after four years working in a residential home and the switch has worked well for her and her two-year-old son Kayden.

“The flexibility of hours that Caremark offers means I can work half days and be with Kayden the rest of the time,” said Cerys. “I do 20 hours a week but there’s also the opportunity to do extra hours if I find myself with some spare time.”

Cerys, 23, says she tries to treat all customers as she would her own relatives and says a positive outlook is vital.

 “Many are well travelled and have had interesting jobs, and it is sad to see how they now find themselves alone and, if their health deteriorates, unable to get out and about anymore,” said Cerys.

“I aim to brighten up their day, make them comfortable even if through dementia they may not know who you are. Just going in with a smile can make such a difference.”

Cerys says she has learned a lot from chatting with customers, including hearing wartime stories of rations and putting on gas masks as children. They also like to see photos of Kayden and hear how he is getting on.

“Everyone is different, their needs are different and opening up a conversation allows you ask questions which then helps you to personalise your care so it can be the best possible for that individual,” said Cerys.

Joining Caremark Kirklees has also had the added benefit of making new friends with co-workers, including others with young children. 

In time, Cerys hopes to use the opportunity offered by Caremark Kirklees to study on the job for progressive health care qualifications and follow the company career path to become a manager.

In the meantime, though she’s happy with a rewarding home care support role and the flexible hours that allow her to spend time with Kayden.

“It’s a job with a purpose, I gain great personal satisfaction and never have any problem getting out of bed for work,” she said.