To kick start our new Willowbrook Spotlight on feature, Lynsey Powell, Registered Manager & Nominated Individual at Willowbrook Homecare agreed to answer a few get-to-know-me questions.
*Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am happily married with two young children. I have two cats who are my adored fur babies, and when I retire, I would like to add a little sausage dog called Frank to our family.
I have worked in the care sector for nearly 13 years.
*How did I get into Care?
I fell into it accidentally after graduating from university. I started working for Tunstall Lifeline, then I moved to Lancashire County Council, initially doing Adult and Children’s Social Care referrals before moving to a role as Care Worker for a homecare provider.
*Tell us about your career path.
Throughout my career, I have progressed through many roles; Care Worker, Senior Carer, Field Care Supervisor, Care coordinator and Manager, and now Registered Manager and Nominated Individual.
I studied whilst working full-time to obtain my Level 5 in Leadership and Management.
*What is the best advice you have ever received?
Do not expect people to do what you aren’t willing to do yourself! I believe this has put me in good stead, and ultimately if I am needed to sit in reception, look at rotas or deliver care then that’s what I will do.
*What do you love most about what you do?
I love the variety of my job role, as I get bored quickly and easily.
I also love hearing about all the war stories. I will be sad when that generation has gone because I feel that history books do not do that period of history any justice.
I love finding out what makes people tick. I am a passionate advocate for the care sector to be recognised as equal to the NHS. We are professionals and masters at what we do.
*Tell us a surprising fact about you.
I have dyslexia and dyspraxia. People can find this surprising, especially in the role I have. It affects mainly my memory/concentration span, coordination and how long it takes me to read and understand written words. I often say to new staff and service users, please do not be offended if I cannot remember your name, but it takes me a while.
I usually have to word-associate, so for example, if your name is Wendy, I might remember that as Wendy Windmill!!!! It might sound silly to some, but that is how I get on in life.
Whilst having a learning disability can cause difficulties in some areas, it gives me strengths in other areas, like thinking outside the box and planning in advance.
Thank you, Lynsey.