We asked around our team of Carers and Office staff at Nightingales Care what we thought made a good carer. More specifically, we asked them what they thought was a useful tip to help deliver a higher standard of care for their clients!
1. Teamwork.
This one comes as no surprise. Teamwork really does make the dream work, especially in Domiciliary Care, where we are working with vulnerable people. Communication, clarity, flexibility and working together for the welfare of those we care for is crucial to delivering a higher standard of care!
2. Leave your woes at the door.
This one can be tricky, because we all have those moments in life when things are hard or overwhelming. We all have obstacles in our lives that can feel monumental to handle. However, a good Carer can have the ability to leave those at the front door and not unload their worries and concerns onto the client they're caring for. Carers should have a good team and supportive environment around them to help out and talk to if they need it, but that isn't for the client they're caring for to handle.
3. Choices, choices, choices!
A crucial component of delivering a high standard of care that a lot of people often overlook is quite simply offering a choice at all times. Sure, the client's care plan says offer them a hot meal and a drink. So... ask what they'd like! Are they in the mood for a lasagna? Soup? Would they like anything on the side or to nibble while they wait? Do they want a hot or cold drink? Never presume or assume what they would like and always always offer a choice where you can. It makes all the difference.
4. The gift of Independence.
When someone thinks of care, there are a lot of preconceived notions of what is expected of a Carer to do. However, a Carer isn't there to simply do tasks and jobs for their clients. Their job is to help promote independence where they can.
Losing the ability to or struggling with tasks we were once more than capable of doing ourselves can be intense. It can be distressing and cause us to feel incredibly vulnerable. That's why, if there's a way of helping someone remain independent (particularly in the comfort of their own home,) then that's what a Carer should do. We work together with the client to help them keep, maintain and thrive with their independence rather than feel helpless. A crucial part of maintaining a High Standard of Care.
5. Listening goes a long way.
A good Carer does more than what it says on a care plan. A good Carer is in tune with their ear and listens to their clients. It doesn't take much to just pause, breathe and truly listen to what their clients are saying or asking. It shows that they are truly focused on them and their wellbeing!
6. Empathy, always.
This one goes without saying. A crucial component for anybody delivering care is to be in tune with your empathetic side. Understanding, listening, and empathising with your clients is fundamental.
7. Celebrate Uniqueness!
Oh to be human is to be unique! We are all different in our own ways, and frankly that is amazing and worth celebrating! And in care, a good carer knows how to champion, promote and celebrate those differences. No two clients are the same, nor should they be treated as such. They should be treated, respected and cared for as they are.
8. Hold your horses!
There's no denying that care work can be hectic. No two days are the same and the amount of flexibility needed is insane. But, there's no need to rush! A good carer knows how to balance their work and just taking the time to pause and listen to their clients. How are they feeling? Is there anything they would like to talk about? It makes things more personal and often makes such a difference.
Remember, we care for our clients Mental and emotional wellbeing just as much as their physical wellbeing!
9. Look after yourself!
Not necessarily what you were expecting in a list like this, eh? Well it's true! Carers are people too. We have needs, emotions and rough days like anybody else. Everybody deserves to be listened to, supported and helped when they need it. Whether it be looking after their mental or physical health, or taking the time to indulge in a hobby or spending time with your loved ones, self care is beautiful and important!
After all, if you can't look after yourself, how can you look after somebody else?
10. Take Pride in your work!
It's been said before and it bears repeating. Carers are the unsung heroes of society. They do not get enough praise nor credit where credit is due. Hopefully, this will change, because a kind and empathetic care worker makes such a huge difference to people's lives.
Take pride in what you do, because you are amazing!