A variety of jobs
Like many carers, Michelle Burr worked in a variety of jobs before making the decision to move into the care sector.
And that varied life experience has certainly stood her in good stead as she’s recently been named Carer of the Year for the second year running.
“Caremark have a lot of excellent carers so the award came as a great surprise and an honour,” said Michelle.
After leaving school Michelle worked for ten years in a sewing factory before the company moved abroad. She then worked in an abattoir for two years which she didn’t really enjoy and was secretly relieved when that closed.
She met and married husband Rob and when children Caitlin and Tom arrived Michelle decided she wanted to be at home for them. As they reached senior school she began to work again part time as a cleaner.
“I started to get bored with that and one of my colleagues was working for Caremark Redcar and Cleveland and suggested I give them a try, I’m so glad that I did,” said Michelle. “I find it fascinating because every person is different and working with people with dementia or Alzheimers I feel I have learned so much.”
Michelle, 49, enjoys the flexible hours available at Caremark. With her children having left school now she works 40 hours a week and through choice does 7am-10pm some days.
“That’s how I prefer it and I find the time passes very quickly. The key is to have a caring nature and to be respectful of the fact you are going into someone’s home,” said Michelle. “You need to gain people’s trust and as you get to know them you can tell if someone is a bit low or not well and help.”
Normally a sun seeker, Michelle will be off to Iceland later this year to celebrate her 50th birthday, meanwhile back home she relaxes by walking her dog Pixie and by getting her nails done.
“A lot of the ladies are interested in my nails, they wonder what colour I will have them done and it helps to get them chatting,” said Michelle.
Where possible Caremark tries to ensure clients have the same regular carers and Michelle believes this is important.
“I have known some of my clients since starting five years ago and building up that friendship and trust is important, you might be the only friendly face they see that day,” said Michelle. “It is so important to people to be able to stay in their own homes and I gain a lot of satisfaction knowing I have helped enable that and that when I leave after a visit the client feels safe and cared for with everything they need.”