An Ayrshire woman has described how she found her calling in life thanks to training at an Ayr care home.
Chloe McMillan has undertaken training at Meallmore Group’s Greenan Manor care home in Doonfoot over the last 18 months through the UK Government's Kickstart Scheme.
On starting at Greenan Manor in March 2023, care assistant Chloe underwent three rotations to experience the different responsibilities in the home.
After completing 24 weeks split across food preparation, activities and care, Chloe found her passion in care.
The UK Government ran the scheme from September 2020 to January 2023 to help combat unemployment rates in young people aged 16 to 24 years old.
Before the scheme, Chloe worked in the hospitality industry and found it difficult to move sectors.
Chloe said: “I’d been interested in going into care after helping to look after my grandmother.
"I was lucky the Kickstart Scheme was operating when I was seeking a career change, as it probably wouldn’t have happened otherwise.
“I feel very supported by my Greenan Manor colleagues, who are so approachable and continue to teach me so much.
"I love interacting with the residents and making their day that little bit better.
"This is it for me - care is my career.”
Looking to the future, Chloe plans to continue her training and hopes to specialise in conditions that affect the brain such as dementia.
Greenan Manor manager Elaine Hughes said: “It’s been great to see how Chloe has thrived at Greenan Manor and we look forward to continuing to support her professional development.
“The Kickstart Scheme has helped us engage a new generation and welcome them to the Meallmore family.
"It’s also presented a wonderful opportunity for young people to experience the different roles within Meallmore care homes and find their place."
Greenan Manor opened in 2021 and recently received a glowing Care Inspectorate report following an unannounced visit. Of the five categories rated in the report, the home scored ‘excellent’, 'very good', and achieved three ‘good’ grades.
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