The Office team acts as the first point of contact for York Carers Centre, linking carers to the support and services offered by the organisation. The team is made up of two part-time staff members and a dedicated volunteer, the team handles phone and email enquiries with care and efficiency, while also overseeing a range of general administrative tasks.
I joined York Carers Centre in 2017, and I am proud to be part of the Reception Team. As the first point of contact, I handle referrals, assist with enquiries, and direct carers to the appropriate team members.
With a passion for supporting unpaid carers, I often provide a listening ear when people need it most.
As Communications Officer for York Carers Centre, I ensure that information about the charities services and upcoming events are communicated efficiently across all communication channels.
With a background in healthcare communication, I am passionate about delivering important information to the people that need it most. Accessibility remains one of the core focuses within my role to ensure clear and memorable communication.
As the Training & Volunteer Officer, I lead on the charity's volunteer recruitment and training programs and oversee the Telephone Listening Service.
My role involves supporting the charity by finding and matching volunteers to assist the Young Carers, Young Adult Carers, and Adult Carer teams, while also empowering carers to become Carer Champions.
Additionally, I manage substance misuse carer provision, offering one-to-one support and group work for carers affected by someone else’s substance misuse and/or gambling addiction.
Having spent most of my career in the charity sector, I joined York Carers Centre in 2012.
The best part of my job is the autonomy and variety it offers. I enjoy thinking outside the box, developing innovative ideas, and inspiring others to make positive changes in their lives.
As the Advice Worker at York Carers Centre, my role involves answering queries about carers’ rights and entitlements. I also provide information about how to access help from the Local Authority and private providers to meet the needs of the cared for person. This may include information about rules around paying for care, setting up a formal care package, or getting equipment and adaptations for the home to help with mobility and daily living. I regularly liaise with the community healthcare teams to prevent a hospital admission or readmission after a recent discharge.
In addition, I can help carers with practical tasks such as form filling. For example, I can guide carers through the process of applying for a Blue Badge, appointing Lasting Power of Attorneys, or arranging respite care. I also help carers access grants for short breaks or household items they might be in need of.
I joined York Carers Centre in 2024, following a career in academia. What I enjoy most about my job is empowering carers to think about their own needs so they can improve their well-being.
I began my career in the advice sector in 1995, following the completion of a BA in Literature and Linguistics from St John's University, York. Prior to this, I gained valuable experience working for several years in Adult Social Services with North Yorkshire County Council.
Over time, I advanced from my initial role as an Adviser at York CAB to more specialised advice work across both West and North Yorkshire.
Currently, I hold dual positions in York, at York Carers Centre and the Welfare Benefits Unit.
