Discovering Joy in Making a Difference: Emily's Journey as a Home Care Worker

Meet Emily Crawford, a remarkable individual whose working days are far from ordinary. Each day is an adventure filled with new experiences, and while she may not know exactly what's in store, she's certain that her role goes beyond mere job satisfaction. For Emily, being a Home Care Worker at Uniting AgeWell holds a profound significance – it's about making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Eleven years ago, Emily made a life-changing decision to transition from the retail sector to pursue a Certificate III in Aged Care. This path led her to Uniting AgeWell, a not-for-profit organisation where her journey of meaningful work began.

“I love chatting to older people and listening to their life stories,” says Emily. “At the end of the day I come home feeling good about myself. I’m doing a job that matters.”

Based in the charming town of Bendigo, Emily wears many hats in her role as a Home Care Worker. She accompanies her clients on shopping trips and medical appointments, engaging in heartfelt conversations over a cup of tea, and assisting with personal care and household tasks in the comfort of their homes.

What sets Uniting AgeWell apart is the array of services it offers in the Loddon Mallee region. In Emily's case, her weekly routine includes spending two days at the Seven Hills Respite House, affectionately known as ‘The Cottage.’ Here, she engages with individuals seeking respite care, organising everything from arts and crafts sessions to lively card games and cosy movie nights. Additionally, she's thrilled to be part of bus trips that take clients on outings to art galleries or to admire the blooming Kyneton daffodils.

“I have a huge amount of fun,” Emily says.

Paula Richards, Uniting AgeWell's Program Manager for the area, emphasises that opportunities like Emily's are abundant within the Bendigo home care program. This role involves assisting Commonwealth Home Support clients with essential services, with the added option of respite care. It also extends to catering to those with specialised needs or who are beneficiaries of Uniting AgeWell's home care packages.

What's truly inspiring is that Uniting AgeWell supports individuals pursuing their aged care qualifications while actively contributing to the home care team. This organisation nurtures a spirit of growth and learning, allowing individuals like Emily to enhance their skills while making a genuine difference in the lives of the elderly.

Emily's story is a testament to the fact that a career can be much more than a job – it can be a fulfilling journey filled with compassion, joy, and the remarkable opportunity to positively impact the lives of others.

Click here to find out more about Uniting AgeWell