On a mission!...Care will probably feature in our lives in one way or another, it should be somethin

carerscoffeepot
Jun 24, 2014
2 min read

The more I hear of abuse within care the more I feel anger, disbelief but most of all , let down.

How do these people even manage to get selected?

Is it because of a poor selection process?

Is it because care is very often seen as 'an easy' job to go for?

Is the interviewing process niave?

Are the applicants taken on because not many others applied,there is a staff shortage and we need more to cope?

Should there be a higher standard of qualifications required BEFORE even being considered to take on the role and only then continue with on the job training???!

This does worry me.

Thinking back to my own first steps of becoming a carer, firstly, I WANTED to do it.Secondly, I was quite surprised that it was only two weeks of training,with a week following an experienced carer and then I was on my own.

Over the years there were refresher courses going on and NVQ's to gain.

I have no problem in feeling priveleged to have entered the profession (...and yes I will use the term Profession because that is the standard I feel the position should be at.)

So, I feel it's time to do something positive, longterm and ongoing. I need your help to do this....

Care will probably feature in our lives in one way or another, it should be something to feel happy , comfortable and confident to recieve.

One of the Carers Coffee Pot aims is to create and provide support for a happier and stronger care workforce. This will involve all of you to take part if you care about what you do and care about others.

It is time to focus on the 'organsation' as a whole. From management to carers and back again.....(You can read more about 'Dignity to the Careworker' here.)

Management need to reassess there applicant process, instill continued thorough training , not be afraid of change in how a system works and have a greater insight to each individual on their team, care for their wellbeing, actively listen and provide support and guidance for them.

The carer needs to be able to express concerns of the welfare of others, themselves, feel comfortable in discussing what they see and suggesting how something may be approached . They need to feel valued and involved in the decision process of care to those they attend.

A continuing circle but one which is worth returning to if only to maintain a high standard.

Lets set the scene...

1.You are the employer.

What would you be looking for specifically from an applicant?

2. You are the applicant.

What qualities would you be looking for, from your employer?

I shall put these scenarios over on our forum. It is for members only, so if you are not a member just sign up.