In Conversation with Wellbeing Support Worker, Rachel

We spoke to Wellbeing Support Worker, Rachel, from the Northumberland team who told us more about her experience of working for BelleVie and supporting people to thrive at home.

Rachel, Wellbeing Support Worker, Northumberland team

Hi Rachel! Could you tell us a little bit more about your experience prior to becoming a Wellbeing Support Worker, had you worked in care before? 

I have never worked in the care industry before other than helping with my elderly grandparents and caring for my son who has autism, however BelleVie has exceeded my expectations in helping me to learn the role with online courses with help and advice.

Do you enjoy your role as a Wellbeing Support Worker? 

I have loved every minute of this job so far, the courses are so interesting and I have learnt so much. Then there are the people we support, they are amazing!

What does a typical day look like for you as a Wellbeing Support Worker?

Each visit is different and I am always so pleased to see them as they are me; whether it’s walks and days out, conversations and talks of their memories, helping them to clean or cook. I love building relationships with them and I never thought I would find a ‘job’ that makes me so happy. 

That’s so lovely to hear. And when you’re not supporting people, what do you like to do in your spare time? 

I’m passionate about cooking and often take my home cooked food for the people we support. I love old buildings and pretty gardens so take them out to visit these which they really enjoy. One lady in Hexham was so grateful for my home cooked food and said she loved to cook using my tips and recipes. 

We know that all Wellbeing Support Workers go above and beyond care to connect with the people we support, is there anything else you like to do with the people we support? What activities do you like to do with them? 

I’ve received art lessons from Marjorie, which I really enjoy, she was a teacher and it is amazing to see her jump back into the role. 

We’ve loved seeing your photographs of your visits with Ian. What activities does Ian enjoy on his visits?

I’ve taken Ian out on 6 mile walks to castles and along the river, to the woods and the beautiful Belsay Hall. 

Rachel and Ian’s adventures in the Northumberland countryside

Have you seen a change in Ian’s mental health and wellbeing since you started visiting? 

Every person I’ve supported, I’ve seen a huge impact on their mental health and they really look forward to our visits. Also the help has a massive impact on the people who usually care for them and we build an amazing relationship with them too. I got so attached to a lady called Ann, I cried on my last visit and promised I would still pop in to see her. BelleVie has also had a huge impact on my life and mental health, knowing I am making a change and helping is so rewarding. 

Find out more about our Northumberland teams, as well as the career opportunities and support available on our dedicated Northumberland page.