Rhian Owen - Care assistant

Rhian lives locally on Anglesey and is a first language Welsh speaker. Having followed in her mum’s footsteps after leaving school, Rhian has been a care worker for 18 years and finds her role incredibly rewarding. During that time, she’s seen first-hand the difference that using the Welsh language makes to the people she cares for.

"Many of the people we care for find it easier to express themselves in Welsh, so being able to communicate with them using their chosen language makes it easier to assess their needs."

"Some of the residents are nervous when they arrive at the home; it’s a huge change in their lives so it’s important that we have some staff in the home that speak Welsh. It puts them at ease, and helps you build an instant relationship with them.

We have a mix of abilities here, not everyone speaks Welsh and some of the staff have learned on the job – you can pick up a lot from listening to co-workers and residents speak.

“It’s work for us, but at the end of the day it’s their home. We must respect them and their wishes.”