Ripley care worker shares why it’s never too late to change careers

Exemplar Health Care is shining a spotlight on Angie Smith from Codnor, Ripley who’s made a significant career change later in her life, encouraging others to consider a role in care.

At the age of 56, Angie decided that she was ready for a career change. Having worked at Tesco for over 30 years and volunteering with local charities, she decided to work in social care to make a difference. After applying for a role at Yarningdale care home in Codnor, Ripley, she quickly realised that a lot of her skills were transferable.

In a previous voluntary role, Angie supported people with a history of alcohol and substance misuse, and trained as a Mental Health First Aider.

When starting her new care role at Exemplar Health Care, she was able to use the skills she developed from her volunteering experience, to support those at Yarningdale who are living with complex mental health needs.

Angie says: “This role is a rewarding role and seeing that you make a difference to the service users lives in a positive way is the best reward of all.”

“Every day is different at Yarningdale. The staff are all lovely as we all have the same goal to make every day better for our service users. At 56 years old I’m excited for what’s next. I want to be the best version of myself and Exemplar Health Care is there to support me along the way.”

Angie has keen ambitions to develop within the company, and hopes to complete a Level 3 Social Care Lead apprenticeship.

Exemplar Health Care has 32 care homes across England. The specialist nursing care provider is recruiting for several roles across its homes, including Health Care Assistants and Registered Nurses. Visit the careers section of the website to find out more: www.exemplarhc.com/careers