Meet Judy, Care Worker at Alina Homecare

National Apprenticeship Week is here, and it's the perfect time to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and achievements of all learners. At t2 group, we're proud to support you on your journey, helping you develop the skills and experience you need for a successful career.

This week is about recognising the value of apprenticeships and the vital role they play in shaping the future of industries across the country. Whether you're just starting out or advancing in your career, we're here to cheer you on every step of the way!

Here's one of our successful learner stories, and how an apprenticeship benefitted her career.

Judy is a dedicated care worker at Alina Homecare, providing essential support to help people live independently in their own homes. Her role involves:

• Assisting clients with daily living activities, offering both practical support and companionship
• Supporting clients with social and physical activities to enhance their well-being
• Promoting physical and mental health to encourage independence
• Providing emotional and social support while upholding dignity and respect

Judy's primary goal as a care worker is to make life easier for her clients and bring a smile to their faces every day. She believes it's the small gestures that often make the biggest difference, and the meaningful connections she builds with her clients are incredibly special to her.

Judy joined the Bristol branch of Alina Homecare in May 2020 as a care worker, bringing with her previous experience in both community care and care home settings. Before joining Alina, Judy took some time off, feeling anxious about returning to such a demanding role. However, during her time away, she realised how much she missed working in care. The onset of the COVID-19 lockdown further motivated her to return, knowing the need for care workers was greater than ever.

Currently, Judy is pursuing her Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker Apprenticeship with t2 group. Through this programme, she has deepened her understanding of critical topics such as safeguarding, legislation, and best practices. While she had some prior knowledge from her hands-on experience, the apprenticeship has boosted her confidence, enabling her to apply her learning more effectively and understand the rationale behind various care protocols.

"At school, I wasn't very academic, and I lacked confidence in my studies. Starting the apprenticeship was a huge decision and quite daunting for me. However, I've always found that when someone believes in me, it helps me believe in myself. The biggest challenge was facing my English exams due to my dyslexia—it was the first English exam I had ever taken, and it was nerve-wracking. Thankfully, t2 provided outstanding support and encouragement, which helped me pass. I’m incredibly proud of this achievement."

Judy hopes her journey inspires other care workers to pursue further education and qualifications, especially those who may need additional learning support. "t2 has been fantastic, and I want others to know that support is out there."

Judy is eager to progress into a senior care role, where she can share her knowledge and techniques with new team members, helping them gain confidence and become exceptional carers.

"After completing my Level 3 Apprenticeship, I plan to take a short break from studying to focus on my career progression. Eventually, I aim to pursue higher-level qualifications that will support my goal of securing a senior role in care."

Judy highly recommends a career in social care because of its dynamic and rewarding nature.

"Every day is different! One day, you might be taking a client to a day centre to play skittles, and the next, you're providing support to someone facing mental health challenges who needs reassurance and care. You don't need prior experience to succeed in this field—you just need to genuinely care. Compassion and the right mindset are what matter most because the technical skills can be taught through training."

Judy's favourite part of her job is simply being there for her clients. "I love supporting them through the highs and lows, sharing in their laughter and tears, and just living life alongside them. For anyone seeking a career where no two days are the same and where you can truly make a difference, this is the job for you."

You can find more information on all the apprenticeships we offer at t2 group here.