Meet Vicki: an allcare Community Support Worker committed to helping clients live independently at home

Dedicated to providing personalised care, Vicki supports individuals in maintaining their independence and well-being at home.

At allcare, we are committed to delivering personalised, high-quality care that empowers our clients to remain independent and in control of their lives. We pride ourselves on offering flexible and affordable services that enable older Australians to age comfortably in their own surroundings. Our mission is made possible by our incredible staff, like Vicki, who are dedicated to delivering consumer-directed care. Today, we sat down with Vicki to learn more about her journey in aged care and her passion for helping others.

How long have you worked in the aged care sector?

I’ve been in the aged care industry for 17 years. I started out working in a nursing home for five years, but for the past 16 years, I’ve shifted to home care. There’s something really special about being able to support people in the comfort of their own homes.

Why did you choose to work with allcare?

I chose allcare because it’s a local, family-oriented company that provides flexibility in the way they provide their services. I have a family, so it was important for me to find a company that allowed me to set availability around my family commitments, and I appreciate that balance. Plus, I like the values allcare stands for, they’re good people.

Why do you enjoy working with allcare?

I love this job because it’s so rewarding. I enjoy meeting new people, listening to their stories, and learning about their histories. It’s amazing. But what’s even more fulfilling is knowing that I’m helping them stay in their own homes. That’s a big deal for a lot of people, and it feels great to be able to contribute to their independence.

What services do you deliver as an allcare Community Support Worker?

My day-to-day jobs vary. I help with personal care, like showering or assisting people with getting dressed. For those who have difficulty getting out of bed, I’m there to help them start their day. I also take people to appointments, help with shopping - whether it’s taking them along or going by myself with a list. There’s also social support, where I spend time with clients to give their partners a bit of respite. For example, with my client Richard, his wife Margaret is his primary carer. To offer her some respite, I provide social support on Wednesdays which often involves  watching a movie with Richard – he’s a big movie buff!  This allows Margaret to take a break as caregiver and focus on herself. It’s all about offering help where it’s needed.

Why are you proud to help people stay in their own home for as long as possible?

I'm proud to help people stay in their own home for as long as possible because it allows them to maintain their independence and stay in the place they've built their lives around. Their home is familiar and comforting, which is so important for their mental well-being. By helping them remain in that environment, I feel like I'm not only supporting their independence but also improving their quality of life. It's rewarding to know that by staying at home, they can enjoy a sense of normalcy, and their families can feel more at ease knowing they’re in a place they love.

At allcare, we’re always looking for people who are dependable, respectful, innovative, and have a passion for providing person-centred care for our clients. If you’re interested in making a meaningful impact to the lives of older Australians, learn more about our available job opportunities here: https://www.allcare.org.au/careers