I was planning to travel the world and had thoughts of being a carer, so when I found out about ENA I thought this was a great way to combine both.   I used to be an IT Manager, entrenched in the rat race and always going flat out.   I have to be selfish here and say I love the ‘pace’ of the care work.  It’s slow, and needs to be.  In fact, patience and understanding is probably the most important attribute you can have as a carer.  Doing the simplest things like cooking a nice meal, keeping the place tidy or helping the client feel more independent means so much, so taking the time with these is really important.   I have never been the ‘housewifey’ type but have been surprised at how enjoyable and rewarding simple things like cooking, shopping or driving someone around can be, especially when it is making such a difference to someone’s life.

I think above all a carer needs to be patient and understanding and that means people skills!  If you are good with people and have a little common sense, then the job itself can be learnt very quickly.  One thing I find a challenge at times is how restrictive the job can be.  After all you are there for the client 24 x 7.  To help with this I find it important to have time away from each other.  Not just in different rooms but in your breaks go out and make sure you both have space to yourselves.  Also respect each others privacy.  Simple things like knocking before you enter the clients room or offering to go out for a walk when they have a visitor over can make such a difference.

If you are thinking about being a live-in carer then great!  Just remember, it is more about the person than the tasks.