Meet Julie-Anne McDermid. Julie-Anne is a support practitioner with Carrgomm in Argyll and Bute, providing support to those who need it.
“No two days are ever the same working with Carrgomm,” she said. “Because our work is person-centred, our days are all dictated by the outcomes of the people we work with and these vary widely from person to person.
“The role can suit many people as our services tend to start at 7am and finish around 10:30pm, with various shift patterns, we even provide overnight support.
“My job sees me providing support to between five and seven people on a shift, all with different outcomes and needs.The role of support practitioner is both rewarding and interesting. We have the privilege of supporting people within their own homes and get to know them and their families well.
"Typical support could include: helping a person to get up and get washed, get dressed and brush their hair and teeth; check their response alarm is on if they have one; prepare their meals; administer medication; apply any creams or pain control patches; encouraging exercise; and check that there are no concerns that require to be passed on. We try to encourage our supported people and promote their independence so that they don’t lose their confidence.
“We have guidelines and training to assist us and are supported well by our organisation. We are given full paid training, including the opportunity to undertake our SVQs, and are fully supported through this process.
I really like my job and think I go above and beyond to help my supported people and make them happy and comfortable. Carr Gomm is a great company to work for, very supportive, and the training I receive is to a very high standard. I’d definitely recommend it.”