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National Careers Service success story Penny’sPenny turned to the National Careers Service for advice and guidance

Penny, a dedicated care worker at Coombe House in Liskeard, a specialist care home for elderly people living with dementia, had been feeling low and uncertain about her career.

She loved her work but had been struggling through a difficult time and felt she had lost her sense of purpose and confidence. Unsure about her next steps, Penny turned to the National Careers Service for advice and guidance, hoping to find clarity.

It was during her meeting with Maggie, a compassionate and understanding careers adviser in the Southwest, that Penny’s life began to change. Maggie listened attentively, not only to Penny’s concerns but also to her life story, her skills, and the challenges she was facing.

Rather than suggesting a complete career change, Maggie saw the depth of Penny’s passion and the unique strengths she had gained from her previous experiences.

Regaining confidence and self-esteem

Maggie played a pivotal role in helping Penny regain her confidence and self-esteem. Penny, a mother who had spent years caring for her children, found herself unsure about how to refocus on her career after her children grew older.

When Penny first met with Maggie, she was unsure of her next steps, but Maggie’s warm and supportive approach immediately put her at ease.

Through thoughtful conversations, Maggie encouraged Penny to reflect on her vast experience, skills, and knowledge from her years working in dementia care.

One of the most significant breakthroughs in their sessions was when Maggie helped Penny recognise how valuable her experience in dementia care truly was.

Penny had developed a unique skill set through her work, but she hadn’t fully appreciated how much expertise she had accumulated over the years.

Maggie guided her to see the depth of her knowledge and the impact she had made in her field, helping Penny realise that she had much to offer.

This boost in self-awareness allowed Penny to start viewing herself as a professional with strong skills, which was a turning point in rebuilding her confidence.

A passion for art

Another aspect that Maggie helped Penny rediscover was her passion for art. Penny had been running a series of art therapy workshops at the care home where she worked, but over time, she had drifted away from her own creative practice. Maggie encouraged her to start doing more art at home to reconnect with that part of herself.

As Penny began to rekindle her love for art, she found that this creative outlet not only brought her joy but also helped her feel more empowered and balanced.

The combination of focusing on both her professional strengths and personal interests helped Penny rebuild her self-esteem.

Proud to Care Awards 2024

Penny’s renewed energy and commitment to her work didn’t go unnoticed. Senior staff at Coombe House were quick to recognise her positive impact on both the residents and the wider care team.

As a result, Penny was promoted for her outstanding contribution to the care home, a moment that reaffirmed her sense of purpose and belonging in her career.

Not only that, but Penny’s earned her a nomination for the prestigious 2024 Proud to Care Awards, where she went on to win the Dementia Champion Award, a testament to her dedication and creativity in making a real difference.

Reflecting on her journey, Penny attributes much of her transformation to the guidance and support she received from Maggie. “Maggie played a crucial role in bringing back my confidence and self-esteem,” Penny shared. “I had been feeling lost, but through our meeting, I was able to see the value in my skills and reignite my passion for both care and art. It truly changed everything for me.”

Penny’s story is a powerful reminder of how the National Careers Service can help individuals not only navigate career changes but also discover new ways to thrive within their current roles.

Through the personalised advice and guidance provided by advisers like Maggie, people can unlock new opportunities and find fulfilment in their careers once again.

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