"This can be anything from using the care database, using various pieces of equipment such as the Lifelites eye gaze communication device, or the interactive magic carpet and magic mirror. But generally, the nurses are looking after the children, they don’t have the time to just sit and do these things, so that’s where I come in – as a sort of go-between from Care to other departments.
“I also help Helen [Rolls, Lead Nurse in Kent] and the three Team Leaders in a PA capacity, helping with admin, producing reports and collating information. Another aspect of my role involves working closely with our Fundraising Team. When supporters would like to make donations, I will organise the drop-offs and meet and greet them when they arrive on site – and I love that part, so much. I love that we get to make a difference and although I’m a cog in a massive machine, at least I can think ‘well I had some sort of interaction’ – and that I can do something.
“I love speaking the families. We have had end-of-life cases in here, which is obviously part of what we do – and sometimes the families just need those ‘general’ daily conversations.”
Being part of an amazing Care Team
“I have to admit, being part of the Care Team has been amazing, I have seen some amazing things. Like with the team, we had a recent end-of-life case, which really affected quite of a lot of us. The care team are like a ‘drawstring bag’ because they’re all doing their bits and then someone needs some support and the drawstring goes and then suddenly, they’re all there – getting you a cup of tea, talking about it. As soon as you’re in need, they all come to you and then they sort of make it better.
“I absolutely love my job. It’s full on, don’t get me wrong, this job is very, very stressful – but then you experience those little glimpses and it makes everything worthwhile. There can be really sad times here, heart-breaking and then there’s other times that are just so beautiful and lifts you, and it’s fantastic – I’m very, very lucky.”
Join Demelza’s Nursing and Care Team
At Demelza, we believe people, just like Karen, are our greatest asset – and we are looking for experienced registered nurses to join us at our sites in Kent, South East London and East Sussex. Find out more about the roles we have available and the benefits of working at Demelza today.
