How Tracey, Team Leader, found her passion for support
Tracey Nickless, Team Leader at Badgers Court, our supported living service in Dudley, West Midlands shares her story of how working as a full-time mum led to a career at Lifeways.
Tracey’s passion for care came from her son, who has special speech and language needs. She spent her time looking after him, as a full time stay at home mum. During this time, she encouraged him to do things independently, make the best of what he could do, and never give up… which he didn’t! Tracey's son is now self-employed and a credit to himself.
In 2013 Tracey joined our Lifeways team. After working her way up, she is now a Team Leader. It is Tracey’s job to ensure all the people we support get the best quality care, and help people to lead more fulfilling and independent lives.
Tracey describes a typical day as a Team Leader at Lifeways:
“My responsibility is to the individual I support and their wellbeing first. My average day consists of handing out medication, meals, and drinks to people we support. I give personal care, housework, run activities, and just make sure the person is happy, safe, and comfortable. I also go shopping, take them to appointments, and go to meetings if needed. I’m always chatting throughout the day and making people smile which is very important for them.”
As Tracey has worked for Lifeways for over seven years, she has been able to develop her professional and personal skills.
As a Lifeways colleague, Tracy has a clear pathway for training, development and support to achieve these goals. Tracey takes every opportunity to learn new ways of working and reflect on her role.
“Lifeways listen to you. They are always improving the service, considering the wellbeing and preferences of the people we support - but they also offer excellent leadership, training, and are dedicated to supporting colleagues.”
Leadership skills
“I have learned excellent leadership skills from my manager - including how to deal with professionals and families, the different ways of communication, which is based around the individual, and how to write and understand care plans and risk assessments.
“I have also learned how to reflect on my skills, and how to manage my own wellbeing and the wellbeing of the colleagues I work with.”
Lifeways is the UK's largest team of professionals who support adults living in the community.
To see how you can join the team at Lifeways, visit our careers page.