Adult social care is a career choice for life for Regional Operations Manager for Gloucestershire, Steph White.
Steph dreamt of becoming a nurse as a little girl. She became a part-time support worker to fund her way through college whilst studying health and social care. By the time she had finished her studies, she was hooked:
"I applied for a full-time support worker role and never looked back. I then worked in various challenging behaviour residential services, progressing from support worker to senior deputy over a period of 16 years."
Steph left a role in residential care to join National Care Group as Registered Manager of supported living services at Merry Den. It was very different but a challenge she was ready for:
"I needed to drive change and my first challenge was getting backing from the team. Some left, but thankfully the majority were on board. It was a tough first year but receiving a ‘Good’ CQC rating with a glowing report 12 months later made it worthwhile for me, and for the team, who were over the moon."
Steph thrived in her role and was supported by the National Care Group Learning & Development Team to progress in her career. She later received a promotion to Regional Operations Manager.
"I completed my Level 5 diploma over 18 months. When I was awarded a distinction in all areas, it really boosted my confidence. The job opportunity came at the right time – I felt ready for the challenge."
Is Steph pleased she chose adult social care?
"Yes! I feel I’ve made a difference to the lives of the people we support and encouraged my team to progress. When families acknowledge my hard work and how valued I am, it’s lovely to hear. Yes, it is challenging at times, and the pace is fast, but I wouldn’t want to work in any other sector."
