Age
21

Education
NVQ Level 3 in care. First aid, food hygiene and challenging behaviour training. Skills courses, including care planning and medication.

So, what do you actually do?
I’m a care assistant team leader at a John Grooms home for disabled people in Harrow, north London. I liase with social workers, doctors and others to ensure a high level of care is provided.

What makes your job so ethical?
Care is a wonderful career as you are helping people do what they can't do for themselves alone. It allows people with disabilities to live as independently as possible.

How did you get into the job?
I wanted to do something that would fulfil me. I had done some volunteer work at a special school, while I was studying, and decided it was something I wanted to pursue as a career.

What does your typical day involve?
I assist our clients with their daily living, such as bathing, eating, or visiting the shops, going out for a meal or to the pub for a drink. I am there to facilitate and give support with anything that an individual wishes to do, as long as it’s not robbing a bank!

What skills and experience do you need to work in this sector?
You don't need direct experience of care, but you need to have an idea of what's expected of you. You’ll need to be able to think of ideas to get around the physical, financial and mental obstacles disabled people face.

What's the most memorable experience you've had in this job?
I have really enjoyed some of the theme nights at the home, one in particular was when all the staff and residents dressed up as characters from a Bollywood movie. We sang and danced and ate loads of good food.

What are the best things about your job?
Seeing people achieve things that they have really worked for, sometimes as simple as cooking a meal for themselves.

And the worst things?
People always look down their noses at carers, due to adverse media coverage. The group I work with also face poor public preconceptions of disability.

Any top tips for someone wanting to get into this work?
Show how keen you are by volunteering at a local day centre. You may be an artist or musician, or love reading or exercise. All these skills can be used in this career.

John Grooms
www.johngrooms.org.uk