When I started working in care, I thought I knew what my future looked like.
I'd studied Health and Social Care at school and became a domiciliary Care Assistant when I was 19. I enjoyed the work, but I saw it as a job rather than something I'd build a long-term career around.
Joining Bluebird Care changed that.
It was only when I joined Bluebird Care that I realised just how many opportunities were available.
Working closely with customers and colleagues gave me a new perspective on the organisation.
I could see that great care wasn't only about the support delivered in people's homes. There was a whole team working behind the scenes to recruit, train and support Care Professionals so customers received the best possible care.
As I gained experience, I progressed from Care Assistant to Care Coordinator, where I developed new organisational skills and worked closely with customers, families and care teams every day.
When an opportunity came up to move into recruitment, I decided to challenge myself.
It meant stepping into a completely different role, learning new skills and building my confidence in ways I hadn't expected.
Moving into recruitment pushed me outside my comfort zone, but it helped me discover strengths I didn't know I had.
Alongside gaining my Level 3 qualification, I've learned through mentoring, practical experience and the support of experienced colleagues.
Every new challenge has helped me grow.
Today, as Recruitment Coordinator, I help people take their first steps into a career in care.
One of the most rewarding parts of my role is meeting people who are considering care for the first time and helping them recognise the difference they could make to someone's life.
I know from my own experience that many people don't realise where a career in care can lead.
There is still a misconception that being a carer is "just a job", but the reality is very different.
The relationships you build, the responsibility you take on and the opportunities to keep learning can lead to careers across many different parts of the organisation.
Looking back, I'm glad I challenged myself to try something new.
Social care gave me opportunities I never expected. Every new role has helped me build my confidence, develop new skills and discover a career I'm proud to be part of.
Watch Sophie's story
Hear Sophie talk about progressing from Care Assistant to Recruitment Coordinator and how Bluebird Care helped her discover strengths she didn't know she had.
Could this be your story?
Like Sophie, many of our colleagues begin their careers providing care before discovering opportunities in other parts of the organisation. With training, mentoring and the chance to develop new skills, they've built rewarding careers in roles they never expected.
Whether you're taking your first step into care or looking for your next opportunity, we'll support you to find the path that's right for you.
Explore our latest vacancies and discover where a career with Bluebird Care could take you.
Sophie Purdy
Sophie Purdy
/
South East
