Karen Watson is a team member from our Moray branch. She has been working with Cornerstone since September 2021.

Before working in social care, Karen worked in the oil industry. Due to the economic climate in the oil industry, her husband decided to retire and Karen felt as though she needed a change.

Karen’s favourite part of the job is supporting Sarah. “I feel I make a difference because we are able to support Sarah and help provide the life that she wants.”

There are some misconceptions about working in care which Karen wants to try and challenge. “A lot of people think it's bathing and bedding but it’s not. It’s just being there for somebody.”

Karen describes a typical day supporting Sarah. "Sarah gets up and the first thing we do is make coffee. We have a coffee and chat then get ready for the day. I help prepare meals and help with her day to day living. This can consist of playing cards with Sarah, doing jigsaws and going for runs in the car. Sometimes we drive to see the horses in the fields or the seals at Strathlene. Sarah loves to sit and watch them."

“If you are thinking about a career in care – do it. It’s just unbelievable and the rewards for yourself outweighs everything else.”

“It makes you feel like you’ve got a whole new family.”

Read more stories from support workers like Karen.

And if you are interested in pursuing a career in social care you can find more information here.