Emma Walsh works as a Housekeeper at our Haviland House dementia care home. She was kind enough to answer some questions about her role.

How did you begin your career in care work?

When I moved down from Surrey to Sussex in 2014 my background had been in hairdressing - but I was now working for a nursery. I was still commuting to the nursery in Esher when I opened up my local newspaper and saw an advert for Haviland House. I applied and didn’t get it at first but got a job at one of Guild Care’s other care homes. That’s since closed down and I transferred over to Haviland House about 18 months ago. I worked as a hairdresser for over 20 years in the same salon and we had an elderly client base, some of those had dementia. So, in the back of my mind I always thought I’d like to do some care type role in the future.

What’s the best part of your job?

My role is about making sure the home stays safe through H&S audits, the smooth running of the domestic team and just being there for all the staff. For me the best thing about my job is when people say ‘thank you’ and just seeing that our family members are safe.

What would you say to others interested in a career in adult social care?

If you want a job that’s rewarding and challenging, then this role could be for you.

Why do you love about your job?

I get real happiness from my job. I can help family members even though I don’t care for them directly. I keep the place running – I’m the silent cog that helps keep the households working effectively for the needs of our family members. You don’t have to be a carer to work in care. I just love the environment here.