Kerr Taylor-Whitelaw made the change to a career in adult social care after working as a chef and becoming fed up with the long hours which ruined his social life. He’s not looked back since becoming a care worker and is encouraging others to pursue a career in adult social care.
“I started working in adult social care in 2019 and it’s been a complete life changer for me. I’d previously been a chef for four years but it had gotten to the stage where I was doing 80 hour weeks and had no free time. I was basically only out of work to have dinner and sleep.
“Since becoming a care worker I’ve become so much happier and actually have a social life now. I wake up every day looking forward to going to work and knowing I’m making such a positive difference to other people’s lives.
“I’m still yet to have a bad day as a care worker. Of course, the job has challenges but it’s so rewarding to work through them and see the amazing smiles on the faces of the people I care for.
“I work with a host of people with differing care needs so I don’t have a typical day really. A lot of my work is to help them live as independently as possible so this can mean helping them socialise and stay connected with their friends and family as well as helping them on their shopping trips. One day I can be going bowling with them or seeing the latest release in the cinema and the next we’re just enjoying each other’s company in their home.
“I love to have a chat with the people I care for and learn about their lives and the things they enjoy. I certainly never get bored in my job.”
Kerr’s advice to people looking to apply for an adult social care position:
“I would tell people to go for it. If they’re not enjoying their current job and love to help others, then they should research a career in adult social care. You need to have patience and resilience at times but if you’re naturally caring it’s a career you’ll absolutely love.”
