When I arrived in the UK from Sierra Leone, I already had nursing qualifications.
But I didn't realise I could register as a nurse here without going back to university.
I joined Bluebird Care as a Live-in Care Assistant while I settled into life in the UK, never imagining it would completely change the direction of my career.
Working closely with people living with dementia helped me discover what I wanted to do next.
Every day, I spent time supporting people in their own homes, getting to know them as individuals and understanding the challenges they faced.
The relationships I built with customers and their families showed me that great care is about much more than helping with daily tasks.
It's about listening, understanding what matters to people and helping them feel safe, valued and supported.
As I gained more experience, I became increasingly interested in mental wellbeing and supporting people living with dementia and other complex conditions.
That inspired me to pursue registration as a Mental Health Nurse in the UK.
The journey wasn't straightforward.
Alongside meeting English language requirements, I completed the Computer Based Test, the Objective Structured Clinical Examination and every stage of the Nursing and Midwifery Council registration process.
It took determination, hard work and many hours of study.
Throughout it all, Bluebird Care supported me.
My managers worked around my study commitments, helped me attend practical training sessions and regularly checked in to encourage me along the way.
Their belief in me gave me the confidence to keep going. I never felt like I was doing it alone.
Passing both exams at the first attempt and receiving my Nursing and Midwifery Council PIN was one of the proudest moments of my career.
But I don't see it as the end of my journey.
I see it as the beginning of a new chapter.
Today, I want to use everything I've learned through both social care and nursing to help people living with complex needs receive the best possible support.
I also hope my story encourages others to think differently about careers in care.
Working in social care gave me skills, confidence and experiences that continue to shape the nurse I am today.
Looking back, joining Bluebird Care was one of the most important decisions I've made.
Caring taught me that supporting people is about far more than physical health. It's about understanding each person, listening to them and helping them live the life they want.
Could this be your story?
Like Kadijatu, many people join Bluebird Care with different experiences, qualifications and ambitions. With training, encouragement and opportunities to develop, they've built careers that continue to grow in ways they never expected.
Whether you're taking your first step into care, returning to the profession or looking for your next opportunity, we'll support you to develop your skills and achieve your goals.
Explore our latest vacancies and discover where a career with Bluebird Care could take you.
Kadijatu
Kadijatu
/
South East
