Social Care Career Success Story

Jodie Richards returned to a role in social care following a hiatus in a different sector. Since joining National Care Group, she has flourished professionally and personally and hasn’t looked back at her rewarding career choice.

Introducing Jodie

Jodie is a team leader at National Care Group’s Endurance Care Worcestershire. She joined as a night support worker in May 2021.

In the short time she has been a colleague at National Care Group, she has progressed to more senior roles, been supported to complete continuing professional development opportunities, and received a ‘Support Worker of the Year Award’ for her dedication and commitment to the role.

Transferrable Skills

Jodie’s calling is in adult social care. She had a couple of years of care experience before moving to an acting manager role at a garden centre. However, she returned to the sector because of how rewarding it is.

The transferable skills and experience from her customer service role, and a passion for making a difference, enriched Jodie to seamlessly progress at National Care Group.

She said:

“I struggle to believe in myself, but National Care Group really does care and support colleagues. I felt so empowered to progress and challenge myself. I’m so proud of how much I have developed. The social care sector is such a rewarding career pathway – I’m so happy to be part of it!”

Progression to Team Leader

The support from colleagues empowered Jodie to climb the career ladder and take on more responsibilities.

Jodie joined as a night support worker but was soon promoted to senior and is now a team leader. Responsibilities include managing the team of support workers and seniors across multiple services, leading by example, auditing, and planning rotas and shifts.

Kelly Smith, Registered Manager at Endurance Care Worcestershire, said:

“Jodie is like my right arm. I’d be lost without her. As National Care Group continues to grow, I approached Jodie and encouraged her to apply for a team leader role that became available. She had doubts, but I knew she’d be perfect for it.

“It’s great to see how much Jodie has developed, professionally and personally. National Care Group genuinely recognises and supports people. Jodie is a shining example of that.”

Celebrating Jodie’s Achievements

Jodie was nominated by colleagues for an Outstanding Achievement Award less than a year after joining National Care Group.

Our Outstanding Achievement Awards recognise colleagues that go above and beyond in their roles to make amazing things happen for the people we support or their fellow team members.

Colleagues expressed how much they have appreciated Jodie’s commitment to making a positive impact on the people we support.

Kelly added:

“Jodie is a really kind and caring person. It’s an honour to have her on the team. She regularly does ‘car karaoke’ with the people she supports when taking them to activities and appointments – it’s so lovely and an amazing thing to lift spirits. She’s a natural.”

What Jodie’s colleagues said

“She is just fabulous, nothing is ever too much trouble. She supports the people we support and staff brilliantly, always making sure everyone is OK.” – Tina

“Ultimately, Jodie is amazing! She is very committed, firm but fair. She is positive and precise and motivates us all. She is the best we can have!” – Alvin

“Jodie is very hard working, supportive, and motivates everyone to be the best they can be. She is dedicated to her role, both in and outside of work, and is always available should we need her.” - Chloe

What people we support said

“I call her lovely Jodie because she is lovely, funny, helpful, and strong. Jodie is great!” - Ben

“Jodie is wonderful. She supports me really well, especially with my health and mental health. She is always there and stays with me when I need her.” – Kay

Work for National Care Group

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