After leaving her previous role to take care of her father for six years, Sonia found herself looking for a new start…
For decades, Sonia had worked in care giving roles. Naturally empathetic, understanding and people-focused, she loved working with older people – even volunteering as a telephone friend for Age UK during the pandemic.
Sonia explained: “I’m all about the person. I love hearing their stories and learning about their lives. Everyone has a different tale to tell”.
“I’ve had the experience of hearing people’s WWII stories first hand. Sadly, not many of that generation is with us anymore, but I’m glad I got the opportunity to listen”.
Although she loved caring for others, after so many years of out the workplace, she found herself lacking the confidence for interviews.
“When you’re at the later end of your career like I am, it can be difficult – and when you’ve been out of work for six years, you do lose your confidence”.
However, after spotting an advert for Steps to Employment, Sonia decided to quickly get in touch. That’s when she met her Employment Coach, Charlotte.
Sonia continued: “Calico has a good name in the area, that’s why I was looking on their website and found Steps to Employment. I got an email back straight away and I came down to meet Charlotte last July”.
Holding a BA Hons degree in Public Health from UCLan and decades of experience from roles in Lancashire County Council and Age UK, Charlotte quickly put Sonia forward for a role at Dovestone Gardens – Calico’s new 93-apartment supported accommodation for over 55s in Burnley.
Thanks to Charlotte’s work on Sonia’s CV, she quickly got short-listed for interview.
Taking about her interview, she said: “Everyone was lovely. I felt like the whole interview was really honest. I brought up person-centred approaches and I’m looking forward to becoming a part of a company who shares my care values”.
Soon after, Sonia was given the good news that she’d got herself the job.
She continued: “I’m thrilled! I was so happy when I got the role. They really sold it during the interview. I’m very people centred, and Calico seems to be too – we’re a good fit”.
Sonia will be starting her induction and training period in February, preparing for the first residents to move into the new development in Spring.
Interested in writing short stories, poetry and badminton, Sonia can’t wait to get to know all the residents and hear their unique life stories.
To find out more about Steps to Employment, please contact us on 012826 86516 or email us on skills@calico.org.uk
