Select Lifestyles

10th Anniversary Award – Katie Dawson

Katie has been with Select Lifestyles for 10 years now, marking her time with us with a customised loyalty plaque and bonus presented to her by Wayne.

We asked Katie a few questions about her time so far with Select Lifestyles.

  • How would you describe your journey so far with Select?

I started with Select in 2012 as a support worker. I had no previous care experience; however, I always knew this was the career path for me after growing up witnessing my mum’s care and support for my terminally ill auntie and grandparents. My mum enabled and supported my auntie and grandparents to live the best possible lives. She always ensured that she was able to meet their needs and wishes by having their best interest at the forefront of her mind. I watched how joyful and fulfilled she was by supporting the people she cared for daily. That is how I knew the care sector was going to be the career choice for me, as I wanted the same happiness and fulfilment.

I started at the Day Centre and have worked in a few homes in Select over the past 10 years, my most recent being Oberon Grove. Despite not having previous experience in care, Select Lifestyles supported and enabled me to achieve my NVQ Level 2 & 3 in Adult Social Care, hands-on in the workplace which is how I learn best. Select Lifestyles has a fantastic training department and I have achieved many qualifications since joining Select Lifestyles. For example, in Medication, Mental Health, MAPA, Fire Safety, Autism plus so many more. My journey with Select has been fulfilling, rewarding and enjoyable being able to make a difference in people’s lives and I wouldn’t change it for the world.

 

Katie with some of the residents at Oberon Grove.

  • What has been the proudest moment you’ve had with Select Lifestyles so far?

My proudest moment so far with Select has been enabling service users to live independently while supporting and empowering them to meet their goals in life. Seeing their proud faces as they accomplish these things and lastly being promoted to Service Manager in 2018!

  • What do you enjoy the most about working at Select Lifestyles?

Working at Select, I enjoy meeting different people from all walks of life and having the opportunity to support and encourage individuals to live an independent fulfilled life that meets their needs and wishes.

  • What advice would you give to someone starting at Select Lifestyles?

My advice to anyone starting at Select would be; this is a great and important career, always have a willingness to learn and love what you do so you can have the skills and experience to keep vulnerable people safe, healthy and happy. Knowledge, a positive attitude, and a smile are key.

A huge congratulations to Katie, and an even bigger thank you for the last decade you’ve spent with us!