Janette’s story- Facing changes in health and social care

"We have overcome snow, flooding, road closures, a pandemic, and whatever else nature has thrown in our way."

“I have worked for the Care & Support Service in the Sanquhar area of Dumfries & Galloway providing care at home for over 65’s. Over the past 37 years I have experienced many changes and challenges, from starting as a home help and progressing through care in the community, which eventually transitioned into the role of Care & Support Worker. I became a Senior carer, and experienced contract changes, service changes and many changes generally within the role– no two days have ever been the same.

Working with people is my absolute passion and knowing that I have made a difference to someone’s day and contributed to keeping them safe and well in their own home is the ultimate reward. It’s not just about the essential tasks of personal care, meal preparation and medication assistance – it’s about the person themselves. Its’s not a job for money. It’s really a job to love, being dedicated, committed, and showing real dignity, respect, and compassion to both Service Users and their families, as well as my colleagues.

Although a lot of the time the role involves lone working, it couldn’t be done without the team supporting each other and of course the camaraderie and friendships that are formed within.

Covid-19 has been the most recent challenge and initially the fear and the uncertainty were almost unbearable but I had at least one certainty- that I would keep doing my job. I was scared myself but reassured and comforted by being able to make a positive difference to others.  I was often the only person the Service User had seen and interacted with that day. Seeing the streets deserted and other services suspended made my job seem ever the more valuable and essential.

There have been many tears of both laughter and sadness over the years, moments of hilarity which demonstrate our complete commitment and teamwork – taking bikes on the bus to the highest village in Scotland. We have overcome snow, flooding, road closures, a pandemic, and whatever else nature has thrown in our way. Ultimately, I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

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