In our latest Meet the Team spotlight, we are delighted to introduce Rachael Oliver, Registered Manager leading our Hartlepool branch. Rachael’s passion for care began at the age of just 11, fuelling a lifelong passion for supporting others.
In our chat, Rachael shares insight into her career path as well as a behind the scenes look at what is involved when managing a busy regional branch.
What first attracted you to begin a career in care?
From the age of 4 I knew I wanted to work in care as I enjoyed supporting my family, friends, and neighbours with tasks they would struggle with. I had a natural urge to ensure people are safe, well, and happy from a very early age. I began to understand that people weren’t always able to do as much as they would like for themselves, or they weren’t able to at all.
Describe how your career has progressed in the sector to get you where you are today?
At the age of 11, I started babysitting for a young girl with Down’s Syndrome, and at 14 I was a home carer for a housebound lady on Saturday and Sunday mornings. This progressed me to completing a GNVQ in Health and Social Care after I had finished school. When I was 18, I got a job as a support worker, working with adults with learning disabilities. This confirmed my passion and plans for supporting people with learning disabilities.
As soon as I turned 21, I managed to secure a place on the Diploma in Social Work and successfully qualified as a social worker in 2004, specialising in adults with learning disabilities. I was then fortunate enough to be offered a social worker role following my final placement with the learning disability team. I continued this role for 5 years until a management position came up for a day service. Following 5 years in this role, I continued with manager positions in provider services, working with people with learning disabilities, challenging behaviours, Autism, forensics, and mental health needs. I now have 35 years of experience in the care sector, with 17 of those being in management positions.
Describe your day-to-day and wide duties of your job role?
My day-to-day duties include the overall management of the branch, and ensuring our clients receive the highest quality support possible. I also make sure that we maintain compliance, ensure spot checks are carried out, and that staff are trained to administer medication safely. Additionally, I support staff to ensure they are all receiving and completing the relevant training for their job role, which helps them to fulfil their roles to the best of their ability.
I often liaise and network with other industry professionals, allowing me to maintain a profile in both the sector and community. Other duties I regularly carry out include attending important meetings, maintaining and developing positive relationships with several key stakeholders. These include the team, the people we support and their loved ones, industry professionals, other branches and the management team.
What is the most rewarding part of your role at Springfield?
The most rewarding part of my role is being able to observe those we support flourish with the care we provide, leading them to live a fulfilled and enjoyable life.
How has the landscape of care changed since you first started your career?
Today, there are lots more options for the types of support someone may need. However, this support can be much harder to obtain due to the lack of funding available.
What advice would you give someone who may be interested in pursuing a similar role within the care sector?
Don’t think twice, do it!
When you aren’t at work, how do you like to spend your time?
I like to spend time with my family and friends, visiting places, going on walks and relaxing at home.
What unique skills and experiences do you bring to the Springfield team?
I bring a wealth of experience that encompasses aspects of many roles, and knowledge on how to develop and improve services so they are more inviting to existing and future clients.
Rachael’s lifelong commitment to caring for others make her an invaluable member of the team at Springfield. We are so proud to have her lead our Hartlepool branch, ensuring the individuals we support receive quality support that enables them to live a life that prioritises dignity and independence.
Our comprehensive care packages range from flexible homecare and live-in support to expert complex care and care in our beautiful care homes, ensuring we can meet your requirements at any stage. You can feel confident knowing our expert team is fully prepared and dedicated to providing high-quality, tailored support for every unique care need. Get in touch today to discuss how Springfield can support you in your care journey.
