What I Learned from Working in Care

At 17, I was trying to decide what to study at university. I loved my A-levels in Biology, Maths, and Classical Civilisations, and I knew I wanted a career that helped people and made a difference in the world. I was drawn to understanding health, disease, and the human story, and I considered paths in Biological Sciences, Genetics, or Nursing.

But I didn’t want to simply observe like many 6th formers do. An hour shadowing a doctor or nurse for their university application wasn't enough for me. I wanted real experience to decide if I could hack being a nurse. So, as soon as I turned 18, I took a job in care, supporting mostly older people in their own homes in Stocksbridge and Deepcar.

It was one of the most important experiences of my life. I saw firsthand what it means to be caring, hardworking, and trustworthy. I helped people who could not leave their homes, offering not just practical support but companionship and dignity. Making someone smile, knowing you have made their day a little easier, stays with you.

But I also saw the reality of a system under strain. I saw people who needed far more support than the council-allocated 20-minute visits allowed. Care plans were often out of date or simply did not reflect the reality of someone’s needs. In some cases, equipment in care plans could not even be used properly in people’s homes, leading to unsafe workarounds that no one felt comfortable with.

The schedules were often unworkable. People who woke at 6am were sometimes left in bed until late morning, hungry and uncomfortable. I was sent between visits miles apart with not enough time to travel, expected to arrive before I had even finished the previous call. I remember rushing as fast as I could, only to arrive and be met by someone distressed because they needed medication and I was late. They were vulnerable and frightened, and I was 18 and doing everything I could.

The carers I worked alongside were some of the most honest and hardworking people I have ever met. They regularly stayed longer than they were paid for because they cared. It is demanding, physical work, and yet many were not paid enough for the responsibility they carried.

That experience shaped who I am. It showed me that social care is not just a line in a budget. It is a lifeline. As demand grows, we must listen to both service users and carers to build a system that truly works.

Social care is one of the largest line items in Sheffield City Council's budget and it is always increasing as the demand for care increases and the cost of delivering it does. But I understand how important it it. It is a lifeline for so many people. It is a vital service that everyone has a right to.

I am standing because I care deeply about our community. I will always be caring, honest, hardworking, and trustworthy, and I will fight to make sure every voice is heard.

On 7 May, I hope to earn your vote.