For many people, a change of career is an intimidating prospect, but for Megan from Birmingham, it was a chance to see what she really wanted from her career. After working as a professional chef in a busy and bustling kitchen for several years, Megan slowly began to realise she wanted more than a kitchen could offer.
After volunteering with Guide Dogs for the Blind, Megan discovered she had a knack for helping others.
"I decided that I had the right attitude for encouraging vulnerable individuals to lead their best life, and for that reason, I felt compelled to apply to be a Support Worker. The MacIntyre advert intrigued me entirely, due to the mutual interests I shared with the person who needed support. I felt an instant bond."
"The interview consisted of an in-depth break down of what would be required of me if I got the job and interview questions, to help them decide if I would be the right candidate for the job. I was thrilled to find out that *Emma who required support was involved with the process, and some of the questions in the interview were even designed by her."
A few days later, Megan was delighted to receive a phone call from the team in Birmingham-- the job was hers!
After completing her first two weeks of training and getting to know her colleagues Megan was certain this was the right move for her.
" I already instantly felt like part of a team. By the end of the two-week training, I began to consider these people as much more, like a little family!"
But for Megan, her defining moment had to be when she met Emma*, who she would be supporting. Despite both feeling nervous, staff supported both Emma and Megan thoroughly throughout the meeting
"I felt that the encounter was really positive as the young lady answered my questions about her pets and even let Jane (a Frontline Manager at MacIntyre) and I hold her pet mouse."
Since then, Megan's experience at MacIntyre has continued to grow from strength to strength. Emma has grown more comfortable each day, something which Megan is incredibly proud of.
"My journey with MacIntyre so far has been an astounding adventure. I feel that I have settled in well to an incredible team and a ambitious charity."
"The training programme and continual managerial support has exceeded my expectations and confirmed my passion to work within the care industry, but also taught me so much, including, “it’s not what you do, it’s the way that you do it” - preparing me for my role.
I have also had the amazing experience of learning from Emma, who I support. She shows such promise for the future and 'wows' the staff team every day with how quickly she is improving. Most importantly, my introduction to MacIntyre has developed my desire to grow and progress within MacIntyre For this reason, I can only thank Jane Maguire and Daniel Simmonds for believing in me and allowing me to be a part of this process."
*The person's name has been changed
