A journey with Vincentian Care Plus

What's it really like to be a migrant carer? 

We’re very grateful to EA for sharing their story with us, and for becoming part of the VCP family.

​“When I first embarked on my journey to the UK as a carer under the migrant sponsorship programme, I was filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Leaving my home country behind and stepping into a new role at Vincentian Care Plus meant embracing change, new challenges, and the hope for a better future.
 
Today, as I reflect on my experiences, I realise how much I have grown both personally and professionally, thanks to the supportive environment at VCP and the incredible service users I have had the privilege to care for.

​The Initial Challenges
Starting my career at VCP was not without its hurdles. Moving to a new country meant adapting to a different culture, weather, and sometimes, a new language. There were moments of homesickness and the occasional bout of self-doubt. Learning the intricacies of the healthcare system in the UK was another significant challenge. Despite having experience in caregiving, the protocols and regulations here were different.
 
One of the toughest aspects was supporting service users with challenging behaviours. It takes a lot of patience, empathy, and resilience to understand and meet their unique needs. Initially, there were days when I felt overwhelmed, but with each passing day, I became more confident and adept at handling difficult situations.

The Support System at VCP
What made a world of difference was the unwavering support I received from VCP. The ethos of Vincentian Care Plus is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep commitment to providing quality care. From my first day, I felt welcomed and valued as a member of the VCP family.

The comprehensive training programmes offered by VCP equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in my role. I received guidance on best practices, handling challenging behaviours, and understanding the specific needs of our service users. Moreover, the continuous professional development opportunities ensured that I was always learning and growing. 

​​The supportive culture at VCP extends beyond training. My colleagues and supervisors have been a pillar of strength. Whether it was a challenging day or a particularly tough case, I always had someone to turn to for advice and encouragement.

​This sense of camaraderie and teamwork has been instrumental in helping me navigate the ups and downs of caring.

​The Rewards of Caring
Despite the challenges, the rewards of being a carer at VCP are immense. There is an unparalleled sense of fulfilment that comes from making a positive difference in someone's life. I have had the privilege of forming deep connections with our service users, understanding their stories, and being a part of their journey towards better health and wellbeing.

​One of the most memorable moments was when a service user, who initially struggled with trust and communication, began to open up to me. Over time, I saw a significant improvement in their wellbeing and quality of life. Witnessing this transformation and knowing that I played a role in it is incredibly gratifying.
 
The sense of community at VCP is another aspect that stands out. We are not just colleagues; we are a family. This sense of belonging and mutual respect has made my experience here truly enriching.

Vincentian Care Plus is more than just a place of work; it is a place where compassion meets excellence, where every carer is valued, and every service user is treated with dignity and respect. For anyone considering a career in caregiving, VCP offers an environment where you can truly thrive and make a difference.”
 
Find out more about a career with us