To mark this year’s Professional Care Workers’ Week, we sat down with Pamella, a home care manager at Bluegrove to find out more about her role at Agincare and how she turned a care assistant job into a 15-year career in care.
Pamella’s journey in care is nothing short of inspiring. From her beginnings as a care assistant to her current role as a home manager, Pamella’s story is one of dedication, perseverance, and a genuine passion for the well-being of others.
Looking back at her first shift, Pamella said:
“I didn’t know anything about dementia when I started, but I was willing to learn,” Pamella reflects. “The team leader that was there took me under her wings and trained me up.”
Her journey began in 2003 when she ventured into a new chapter with a degree in agriculture. Despite her initial aspirations, London wasn’t the right place for her agricultural dreams. It was then that a suggestion from a friend led her to explore a career in care. “Go and do a course in caring,” she was advised. “I think you’ll do well in care.”
A rewarding career in care
Building a career in the care sector offers not only personal fulfilment but also the opportunity for professional growth. Recognised for her quick grasp of tasks and dedication to providing exceptional care, Pamella was promoted to team leader after just three months. Despite her success, she initially resisted stepping into managerial roles, preferring the flexibility of her team leader position.
At Agincare, flexibility is a key aspect of the work culture, allowing employees to find a balance between leadership responsibilities and hands-on care.
Yet, with each new challenge presented to her, Pamella rose to the occasion. Her journey led her through various roles, from deputy manager to running entire homes single-handedly for extended periods.
A Milestone in Leadership and Care
“One of my most remarkable achievements came in 2018,” Pamella shares. “We got an outstanding rating in a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection.” Her leadership and commitment to excellence not only benefited the residents under her care but also inspired her team to strive for excellence.
“I’m in it for the love of the residents,” Pamella affirms. “They know that we don’t hide anything. We deal with it together.”
Pamella’s dedication has not gone unrecognised. In 2024 she was a finalist in the Registered Manager of the Year category at the Agincare Heroes Awards.
As Pamella reflects on her journey, she remains committed to nurturing the next generation of carers. Through mentorship and guidance, she encourages her team to embrace the values of compassion and integrity, knowing that these qualities are the foundation of a successful career in care.
Looking to start your journey with Agincare?
Whether you’re looking for full-time, permanent positions or work available for just a few weeks a year, we have roles with flexible working patterns to suit your needs. What’s more, we offer a wide range of benefits, including a welcome bonus, funded training to advance your career, a refer-a-friend scheme, and much more!