A family tradition

When Kaitlin Duggan joined the care sector she followed in a family tradition, having been brought up watching her mum Wendy work as a nurse.

“I loved history at university but didn’t want to become a teacher and having worked with horses realised that wasn’t really viable either,” said Kaitlin. “Both my mum and aunt were nurses and so I guess some of that might have rubbed off on me.”

Reflecting on that choice she feels there were two factors that made her first apply to become a carer seven years ago.

“My mum always told me the importance of looking after people and that stuck with me,” said Kaitlin. “Then I read some terrible stories about how residents in a care home had been treated badly, it made me so angry. People at that stage of life deserve dignity and respect and I knew I could do a good job.”

Kaitlin, 30, gained experience in home care, Preston Hospital and in residential care settings before taking up her role as a carer at Lilibet Manor last year.

“I’d moved to the area and wanted a job nearby and also the complex care setting was something that appealed for my development as a carer,” said Kaitlin.

Those complex care needs include supporting everyday living for people with challenging behaviours that can arise with alzheimers, dementia, medical/physical disabilities, and mental health.

“You need to be pro-active, get to know the person as an individual, what their needs and interests are,” said Kaitlin.

“Everyday living means, without pressure, encouraging people to be active at their own pace – rather than just leaving people to sit in a chair all day in front of a television or lie in bed.”

She says the reward comes in the reaction from residents.

“With dementia, for example, people may not remember your name but you can see from their face or tone of voice there is recognition there and they are comfortable in your presence. Making that breakthrough is a great feeling.”

Kaitlin’s approach has seen her named Employee of the Month for January. Something her mum is very proud of.

“I’ve worked several places and this is the first time I’ve ever been recognised in this way so that was a lovely surprise,” she said.

Outside of work, Kaitlin’s time is tied up with Iris, her four-year-old American bulldog lurcher who she’s raised since a puppy.

“She’s very energetic and we love going for walks,” said Kaitlin. “Holiday wise I like places where you can walk and with a bit of history so we are going to Wales this summer.”

Finally, does the Carer of the Month have any advice for anyone thinking of joining the profession?

“Don’t be put off by what you might have heard or read,” she said. “This is a job with a purpose, helping to make people’s lives better. It’s meaningful and very rewarding.”

click here for more details or to contact Lilibet Manor