Amy started her care career as an apprentice over five years ago and now works as a support planning coordinator with Bristol City Council.

She chose an apprenticeship as an alternative to university, liking the idea of gaining paid work experience whilst still learning and gaining qualifications. Amy’s apprenticeship was with Care Direct, Bristol City Council’s front door service for adult care. Tasks included dealing with referrals from citizens, health and care professionals and providing information and advice about care and support.

Now her apprenticeship has ended, Amy works for the support planning and brokerage team. This involves working with social workers, citizens and their families to source the right care to enable people to live their life. This also includes working with the local Clinical Commissioning Group and Bristol hospitals to arrange discharges.

Amy says: ‘The variety means every day brings a different challenge, which I love. I couldn’t work in a job that is the same every day. It’s really important to make a difference with your actions, whatever your job role. It can be stressful at times, even upsetting, but I got into care to make a difference to people’s lives…and to think I almost chose to study accountancy!

‘I am proud to care and plan to be for some time. I would say to anyone considering it as a career option to just go for it and if your first role isn’t right, don’t be put off, try again somewhere else.’