Monday 23 – Sunday 29 August is the first ever ‘Celebrating Health and Social Care Support Workers Week’ at NHS Lothian. As highly valued members of the NHS Lothian care network, our Health and Social Care Support Workers across all departments and disciplines are a critical element in providing care for patients across the area.
This ‘Celebrating Health and Social Care Support Workers Week’, we want to introduce you to some of these precious jewels in the care crown.
Michelle Winning works at Manor Grange Care Home in Pinkhill, Edinburgh:
What was your pathway into being a support worker?
I had stopped working when my kids were born. I have always loved caring for and helping people. When my children went to high school it was an easy decision for me to go into care work and I have never looked back. I just love to care and look after people.
What are your daily tasks?
I am a team leader within a large care home, and I support staff to provide high quality of care to our residents every day. I administer medications and ensure our residents’ specific needs are met.
What it’s like being a support worker?
I find my job very rewarding, despite it being very busy and in turn stressful, I still love to care and ensure residents are getting their everyday needs met. Throughout the pandemic, my role has become more demanding and challenging. However, I would not change what I do, and I am hoping to embark on my nurse training soon.
What do you love most about the job?
I love making people feel safe and cared for. Despite the busy difficult times we have experienced recently due to the pandemic, seeing the residents smile still fills me with joy.
