16/12/2022
Sophie Fahey always wanted a career that involved caring for others. Now working as Regional Support Manager for Mariposa Care, she explains how she was inspired to become a nurse and what makes working in a care home so special.
When did you start your career in care and what prompted you to do so?
When I was at school, I was offered a job in a care home. I loved it – I never wanted an office-based job. This is when I realised I would like to become a nurse, as I knew I wanted a career that involved caring for and dealing with people. I qualified as a Project 2000 nurse and went on to work in the cardiothoracic unit at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle on the heart and lung transplant unit. After that, I worked in the cardiothoracic intensive care unit.
Looking back, what I loved about the job – especially on the heart and lung transplant unit – is why I enjoy working in care homes now. On the transplant unit, I got to know patients and their families well – it was all about building relationships with people and providing good continuity of care.
What do you like most about working in care homes?
The care you give in a care home setting is so special and rewarding in so many ways. I love getting to know the residents, their families and fellow team members. It means your work becomes so much more personal.
What would you say to a nurse thinking about moving from a hospital setting to a care home?
There is a misconception about working in care homes that you won’t be able to gain and develop nursing skills but that’s just not true. It’s like working on a medical ward, but in a homely setting.
Many patients continue to have complex needs even after discharge from the hospital. As a nurse in a care home, you are able to develop management skills and develop competent decision-making skills. Because you know people so well, it means that you can tell when someone isn’t quite themselves, which is so important when making clinical assessments.
Plus, if you work for the right company there is an opportunity to progress your career if you want to. I’m now working as Regional Support Manager, travelling between homes to support the operations team, home managers, nurses and other staff at ground level to enhance resident care. Every week and every day is so varied – I can recommend it to anyone thinking about making the move.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Treat people the way you like to be treated.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life and why?
I have met many people who have influenced or inspired me in different ways over the years. My dad has to be one of the greatest influences on me, his passion for what he believes in and his determination, while being one of the calmest people I know.
What are three things you can’t live without?
Sean my son
Special friends and family
Crisps and cheese
If you would like to learn more about any of our current opportunities, including Care Assistant roles and Nursing roles, take a look at our careers page by clicking the link here.