Our Registered Care Manager, Michelle Neild, had led our team since day one. Here, we ask her some questions about why this role and the Care Sector matters to her.
How long have you worked in social care, why did you choose this career path?
I started my career in Social Care in 2002 as my youngest daughter started school. I decided to go back into Education and complete Health and Social Care Diploma and from there spent 11 years in Higher Education going to University, completing a Bachelors Degree in Social Policy followed by a Masters in Social Work. Whilst studying I worked in a variety of different settings from Mental Health to Safeguarding and Social Work with children, young adults and the elderly.
Tell us about your career journey and how you progressed into management roles?
I progressed into management after my department was closed and a reorganisation was implemented. My job role was ringfenced and I was given the task of merging two departments. During this period, I saw an opportunity to apply for a management role for Bluebird Care Rochdale, at this time I was interviewing for other Domiciliary care Organisations, however it was evident to see a huge difference regarding corporate companies when the focus was on profit margins rather than the delivery of Good Quality Health Care. John and Beryl were focused on delivering good quality health care having both had previous care requirements for parents. This has proven to be the best career decision I have made, starting up a new business is both challenging and rewarding.
As a start-up Care company, what made you want this role above others and not accept offers into another established position?
The interview process compared to other companies was more about delivering good quality health care and not focused on increasing profit margins. I felt the ethos of Bluebird Care and the emphasis on delivery was close to my own values and felt this would be a good fit. I looked forward to building an excellent team, which we have, rather than trying to change an already existing team with potentially different values.
What are your day to day responsibilities as the Registered Care Manager?
As the Registered Care Manager, I am responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day operations within the Care Setting. I must ensure the service is delivering care that meets the national requirements set out by the Care Quality Commission. I also have to make sure that staff and customers are happy and content. It is a fast paced and dynamic environment where no two days are the same. We work to five set standards, known as the Key Lines of Enquiry, to ensure we deliver a Safe, Caring, Responsive, Effective and Well Led service. Bluebird Care policy and procedures aim to go above and beyond those standards and to deliver true excellence in Care.
What do you like best about working with Bluebird Care Rochdale?
The team we have developed is like a small family, we stick together when things can be problematic especially where we have just worked though one of the biggest changes in employment history ever and the dramatic changes being implemented by the effects of a global pandemic. The delivery and changes we can make daily for individuals who access our service is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. I can genuinely say that John and Beryl are caring and compassionate about their business and very family orientated, and this is filtered through to the delivery of care and valued by both customers and staff.
What is the biggest challenge of being a Registered Care Manager?
Day to day running the business in the face of a pandemic, working under unprecedented times. Maintaining consistency with quality care and continuity of care when we are challenged with staffing issues because of school closure and isolation rules.
What advice do you have for Care Staff who aspire to care management roles in the future?
Be prepared to wear several different hats daily, remain calm and fair treating people with dignity and respect. Keep up to date with changes in the Sector and with Employment Law.
What do you do in your spare time to relax / unwind, what is at the top of your bucket list?
I unwind by going to the gym I also like reading and would love one day to live by the coast.
