As part of our #DYWKeyWorkers campaign we spoke to Louise Lamont, assistant support manager at Inspire to ask her what her typical day looks like and gain insight into her career journey.
What attracted you to the industry you are in?
The hours suited me while I was studying at university.
How long have you been with the company and have you always worked as an assistant support manager?
I've been at Inspire for fours years and worked as a support worker, relief worker, shift leader before becoming an assistant support manager.
Describe your day-to-day role
My current role is Assistant Support Manager. I help manage the project on a day to day basis, monitor finances and medication. I create the rota for 50+ members of staff. I ensure guidelines are followed in keeping with care inspectorate regulations and prepare for audits both internal and external.
What kind of training have you done?
Inspire has put me through all in house training required, such as first aid training and epilepsy training. I am also a modern apprentice and I’m working toward my SVQ level 3.
What skills have you learned?
I have had a lot of personal growth since joining Inspire. I have learned cooking skills, communication skills, and how to support adults with learning disabilities.
Have you completed any professional qualifications?
Currently in the process of doing SVQ level 3.
What skills are most important to you to do your job well?
Communication with both the people we support and the members of staff.
Was there anything about the job that surprised you?
How rewarding the job is. Job satisfaction is something I didn’t think I would get in what started as a part time job.
Is there anything unusual about your job?
As a support worker, one day you can be partying at a disco and the next communicating with health professionals. No two days are ever the same, it’s very exciting.
Do you get a lot of support from your company?
Inspire is very supportive and I know who to go to if I need any support.
What is your favourite part of the job?
The people we support.
Did you always want to pursue a career in this industry?
No never. I had zero intention of working in care and never thought about it as a career. I fell into care and ended up loving it.
What advice would you give young school leavers looking to start an apprenticeship?
To think of care as a profession. Give a job in care a chance, there are lots of different roles, from support workers to admin jobs. I’d recommend being as involved with the people we support as possible.
What is your career goal?
To continue working in care to some capacity. Hopefully being as involved with people we support/clients/service users as possible. Within six months I progressed to two senior roles so I hope to continue this.
How does it feel to be a key worker working on the frontline, supporting the country's fight against COVID-19?
I’m really proud. I’m proud of all the people we support taking it in their stride and dealing with challenging changes. The team who I work with have been great at pulling together and the staff morale is great.
Tell us what makes you proud to be a key worker
Continuing to improve the lives of the people we support despite the current concerns and regulations with the pandemic.
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