A CARE assistant from Andover has become a shining example showcasing the opportunities in social care available to young people.

Bluebird Care Andover & Stockbridge, has been rated outstanding by the Care Quality Commission – the highest award available – after being recognised for how they treat their staff as well as their customers.

For 23-year-old Kelly from Andover, a career at Bluebird Care came at an unlikely but welcomed time.

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Having graduated from university with a degree in psychology, Kelly required experience in health care or education before beginning her PhD. Having worked as a care assistant since, it has led her to pursue a long-term career in care and earn the relevant qualifications.

She said: “My advice for young people is that care is an excellent point to start their careers, regardless of which job they hope to get. Everything I have learnt and experienced whilst working for Bluebird Care has been applicable to every role I have applied for and am looking to apply for in the future.

“It is an incredibly welcoming environment and I really wish I had considered caring during my college and undergraduate years.”

Whether it be singing along to The Beatles or Abba, visiting racehorses and going to cafes, or helping customers to walk again, Kelly has enjoyed a successful start to her career as a care assistant.

Kelly’s day-to-day experience in care allows her to apply her studies to real life situations, to the benefit of Bluebird Care customers.

She  intends to continue working in elderly care and wishes to explore a specific interest in dementia care. She also plans on writing and publishing a thesis on the long-term experience of family members in caring for someone with dementia.

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Tarin Reidy, registered manager at Bluebird Care Andover & Stockbridge, added: “Kelly is a shining example of the opportunities we can offer people who are seeking a career where they can progress and gain valuable qualifications in health and social care. We accommodate her needs for studying and are flexible with all our Care Assistants. They all do remarkable work supporting our customers throughout Andover & Stockbridge, and we are immensely proud of them.

“Kelly joined us not knowing what she wanted to do long term. Having found something that she loves, she now intends on pursuing a career in care and aims one day to become a doctor! She has a smile on her face every day, and long may it continue. Kelly will go very far.”

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