Fun fact about yourself?

I am a massive fan of Drag in all forms. I go to shows all over the country to see my favourite performers from Drag Race, Dragula and to support local Drag acts.

What is your role within social care?

My current role is Social Care Recruitment & Retention Officer with Inspired To Care

What are the main responsibilities of your role?

To help care providers recruit new members of staff and retain the staff they have. I do this by offering support to the providers including useful resources and by encouraging new individuals to be part of the incredible care sector we have in Leicestershire.

What inspired you to start a career in the care sector?

My Mum. She has been a care professional my entire life and she lives and breathes making her service users happy.

Describe 3 of the best things about working in adult social care.

1. The people – Both Colleagues and those we are helping. It is nice to be around people who have the same values and intention as you whilst you are working.
2. Karma – I am a strong believer in karma and we get out what we put in. The feeling of making a difference to someone's life is like no other and knowing I am putting that good energy out into the world is setting us all up to receive good care when/if we need it.
3. Showing others they have value – Uplifting others both colleagues and service users. We are naturally caring people to even consider the sector and with that we often forget to care for ourselves. Instilling the confidence we all deserve can make all the difference to the individual.

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community face many challenges throughout their lives. How do you feel a career in social care could help to overcome these?

When I left College my confidence was low from bullying throughout my education because of this my social skills really suffered. Through working in the social care sector I have healed my self-esteem and can now speak with anyone at ease. It has changed me as a person for the better and I will always be grateful for that.

What would you say to a someone identifying as LGBTQIA+ considering a career in the care sector, but who may feel hesitant to apply? What encouragement would you offer?

I know the fear of applying for jobs can be intense. Give it a go the worst they can say is no. You are more capable then you think if you have experienced any form of discrimination and have got through that you can get through this. Once your in you'll love it.

The LGBTQIA+ community is under-represented in our sector. Why do you think this could be? Do you think there are any misconceptions of careers in social care that we need to overcome?

I think it could be fear of discrimination. In care you never know what the day will bring and that is scary to people. It is true every day in care is different but just know the world is changing and members of our own community will need care one day. Help make the change now.

What has been your career path to the position you are in now?

How will you be celebrating pride next week?

By going to see the local performers do their thing.

SUPPORT LOCAL DRAG!