Getting to know: Nicola
We continue our ‘Getting to know…‘ series, which focuses on the amazing Step Up team, with a short interview with Nicola who is one of our Team Coordinators.
Q: What is so great about working for Step Up?
A: It’s the team that we work with – we have a laugh, it’s usually at me. We work hard though and we all have the same goal in mind.
Q: Describe yourself in three words that are appropriate for work.
A: Too Talkative. I carry on too much but I get my work done, other than my weekly planners. I can’t stick to three words.
Q: How long have you worked in the Care Sector?
A: Oh I’ve been here nearly four years in May, and I started working in care 7 and a half years ago. I worked in retail before that.
Q: How do you feel when you manage to help a person you support?
A: It makes you feel good when you see an outcome – it’s like there’s light at the end of a tunnel.
Q: What do you find exciting about your role?
A: Going for tea and cake with our community care clients. Knowing that you’ve helped a young person and you’ve managed to assist them getting into college, or sorting out their money.
Q: What’s your favourite memory working with the young people?
A: I don’t like horror movies but one of the young people talked me into seeing The Purge. She took the mick out of me. We sat and had popcorn and crisps and by the end, I actually thought it was alright..
Q: Tell me about the time you had the biggest impact on a young person?
A: You see a big difference in the people between when they started with Step Up and when they move on. When you meet them afterwards then you see that they’re still doing well. Especially the ones with the babies; you see a huge difference in them.
Q: Can you tell us a little about the qualification you are currently studying through Step Up?
A: Right now I am studying an SQV Level 3 Qualification in Health & Social Care. Step Up are funding me through the qualification as part of my own professional development. It’s been a fantastic opportunity so far!
