Why working nights could work for you

Are you looking for a job that uses your caring skills but fits around the rest of your life?

The caring never stops in our five care homes in Gloucestershire, and joining one of our teams of night staff in Cheltenham just work for you.

Many of our night staff have chosen this work pattern as they have found it a more convenient way to fit in work around a young family or other commitments.

Diane Donaldson, a night Carer and Team Leader, has worked for the charity for almost 8 years, and kindly shared her story of work life on nights.

Diane, who works at Faithfull House care home in Cheltenham explains,

“I am not made for days. I like nights it works for me.”

Diane started as a Carer and now has worked her way up to be a Team Leader. She loves her role leading the team of night staff as well as managing the medication. The night team liaise closely with the day staff dovetailing their work around the resident’s preferred routines.

“At Faithfull, the day and night staff get on really well.”

Diane goes on to explain;

“Working nights you get to spend lots more one to one time with the residents, there isn’t as much hustle and bustle and we’re a very close knit team. Every shift is different, it’s challenging but fun.”

Suzanne Booker, Director of Care, has herself worked many night shifts over her career and understands what the shifts involve,

“During the night residents might ring their call bell for support, a friendly face to talk to and a warm drink. Some residents need reassurance; this is an important part of the night staff role.”

Working through the nights also brings a special camaraderie with colleagues and this teamwork and mutual support can make all the difference.