WeCare Wales Ambassador Blogs: Emmaline Platek

My role

Being an area manager in the domiciliary care sector is a challenging and rewarding role. I am responsible for overseeing the management of multiple service users within a designated area. My main focus is making sure that all service users receive high quality care whilst adhering to regulatory standards and promoting a safe and supportive environment for both service users and staff.

My role requires strong leadership skills, as I am responsible for managing a team of coordinators, reviewing officers, field supervisors and support staff. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial too because I am required to address any issues or concerns that arise and ensure that all staff within my area are operating efficiently and effectively.

Overall, being an area manager in the domiciliary care sector allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of service users and their families, while also contributing to the overall growth and success of the organisation.

How I got to where I am

My journey in the domiciliary care sector began as a support worker, where I completed a Youth Training Scheme (YTS) NVQ 1 in a residential home. At that time, domiciliary care was still a relatively new concept. As my children grew older, I transitioned into a role as a care worker in domiciliary care, which allowed me to balance my responsibilities as a parent. Along the way, I furthered my education by completing level 2 and level 3 qualifications, and eventually became a senior carer. In this role, I was responsible for creating care plans, conducting supervisions, and carrying out reviews. 

Around 10 years ago, I had the fortunate opportunity to further advance my career by completing my level 5 qualification and becoming a registered manager. This milestone marked a significant achievement and opened new avenues for professional growth within the domiciliary care sector.

A typical day

In the world of domiciliary care, there is no such thing as a typical day. Each day presents an opportunity to learn something new, whether it's from the dedicated staff or the individuals we care for. Some days can be challenging, but I believe in creating a positive and lively environment by encouraging staff to take breaks together and share their experiences.

As a manager, I diligently check rotas and ensure that training is up to date. I truly love my job and consider myself incredibly fortunate to work with an exceptional team of staff and serve amazing individuals. I am grateful to be part of a supportive company that values and nurtures both its employees and the people we care for.

The moment I'll always remember

There is a special moment from years ago when I was a supervisor that will forever stay with me. We had a new service user who had experienced a stroke, leaving her with limited verbal communication. Her devoted husband would always insist that we sit down together and enjoy a cup of tea and a penguin biscuit. One evening, as we were putting her to bed, we spontaneously started singing a silly song, "Show Me the Way to Go Home." To our surprise and delight, she joined in and sang along with us!

This beautiful connection continued for four years, with songs becoming a cherished part of her bedtime routine. Even now, recalling that first time brings tears to my eyes, as it reminds me of the power of music and the incredible moments of joy that can be found in the midst of challenging circumstances

What I love about what I do

One of the reasons why I am passionate about what I do is because of the incredible people I have had the privilege of meeting throughout my career. From the dedicated staff I have worked alongside to the remarkable individuals we have been able to support in their own homes, it has been a truly rewarding experience. Helping people remain in the place they love, surrounded by familiar surroundings, is truly fulfilling. The opportunity to make a positive difference in someone's life and contribute to their happiness is what drives my love for this work.

One thing I wish I'd known when I started out

If there's one thing, I wish I had known when I first started out, it would be that I could build a rewarding career out of helping people stay in the comfort and safety of their own homes.

This work has become a true passion of mine, as I have witnessed the profound impact it has on individuals' lives. Over time, I have also seen the training and pay improve, which has further motivated me to excel in this field. Additionally, I have been fortunate to work for a supportive company surrounded by amazing people who share the same dedication and commitment. Knowing all of this from the beginning would have given me even more confidence and excitement about embarking on this journey.