A WOMAN decided on a dramatic career change, after she wanted to find a role that was "fulfilling" and would fit around her other commitments.

Mary joined the Home Instead Mid Devon and Blackdown Hills team last November, deciding to start working as a caregiver after working in insurance and retail.

“I came from an insurance and retail banking background, as well as working for my husband’s business," Mary said.

"I wanted to find a role that would be fulfilling but would fit around my other commitments, and that’s when I came across Home Instead.

“Don’t be put off if you don’t have care experience as you get full training throughout and the office staff are lovely and supportive.

"I quickly realised that I had many transferable skills and qualities to bring to the role.

“I’ve built great relationships with my clients, which I find hugely satisfying, and I have been able to choose my own hours to suit me.

"Because I have a dog, I prefer to have afternoons off for walking him, but it would work equally well if you had children or other commitments.

"All-in-all, I’ve found working for Home Instead a win-win."

Home Instead Mid Devon and Blackdown Hills are urging people to consider a career in care, after many people in other sectors have lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic.

Mark McGlade, co-owner of Home Instead Mid Devon and Blackdown Hills, says: “The care we provide at Home Instead is tailormade and companionship-based.

"We offer award-winning training and ongoing support and would like to invite applications for our caregiver roles from those who may not have considered a career in care before.

“We are aware that there are many people currently looking for work who may have transferable skills from hard-hit industries such as retail and hospitality.

"We are looking for people who are of a caring nature with a desire to make a difference to people’s lives.”

In addition to both full and part-time, hourly care roles are available.

Home Instead also has positions available for live-in caregivers who move into a client’s home for a period of time on a rotating basis, to provide care.

To find out more visit homeinstead.co.uk/mid-devon/