A woman nearing her 60s is enjoying a new lease of life after starting a different career as a Community Care Officer at Nottinghamshire County Council.
Ruth Woodcock, from Gedling, works with older adults to help them live as independently as possible. She joined the Council in December, having previously worked at Nottinghamshire Police.
Ruth said: “I’m a people person, so this is the perfect job. It’s so proactive and I feel like I’m really making a difference. The clients are so welcoming and grateful.
“I have a registered disability and I’m really impressed with the support I’ve had. I had one day where I felt really unwell and my line manager was fantastic and very supportive. It’s made a massive difference.
“I’m nearly 60 so I’m really pleased I got an interview, let alone a job! I do my role for 18.5 hours a week and it keeps me ticking over. I need something to keep me active and give me job satisfaction.
“I have a safeguarding background but I didn’t have any social care experience. My colleagues have been really helpful and there’s plenty of training, shadowing and videos to help learn the role.
“It’s been really refreshing coming here. No day is the same and I’d like to do this role for as long as I can – I love it and it keeps me buzzing. It’s the best job I’ve ever had.”
Councillor Boyd Elliott, Chairman of Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee, said: “It’s fantastic to hear how much Ruth is enjoying working in social care, using her natural talent of working with people to help reassure them and supporting them to live as independently as they can.
“Ruth’s story shows that it’s never too late to start a new career and a role in social care can offer job satisfaction, interaction with people and flexibility to fit around your life.”
The County Council is currently recruiting for temporary Community Care Officers, with opportunities for permanent roles. No previous social care experience is necessary and training will be provided. Find out more and apply for the role: https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/care/adult-social-care/careers/community-care-officer
