I walked into the care sector after deciding it was time for a change of career, with a young daughter at home, becoming a support worker offered the work–life balance I was looking for. I had no idea whether this was the right path for me, but I was eager to explore it. I arrived armed with enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and absolutely no clue whether I had what it took to make a real difference – but 16 years on, I haven’t looked back. From day one, I knew I’d found something special.
I worked my way up through a variety of positions, learning and growing at every step. Each role taught me something new – about people, resilience, teamwork, and occasionally how to fix a printer jam when no one else is brave enough to try. Eventually, I took the leap into an auditing role, where I discovered that my love of detail, structure, and asking “just one more question” could actually be a career. It’s been a journey filled with growth, challenges, laughter, and the privilege of working alongside incredible services and staff teams across Keys Group.
As a Quality Manager, I like to think of myself as the person who helps keep the wheels turning smoothly – kind of like the MOT for our services, but with fewer oily parts and more paperwork.
My role supports people indirectly by ensuring our services are safe, consistent, and delivering the high-quality care every individual deserves. I get to work with teams across the organisation, helping them reflect, improve, and celebrate what they’re doing well.
If the people we support are thriving, and the staff feel confident and equipped, then I know I’m doing my bit behind the scenes.
The variety is what I enjoy most about my role. One day I’m deep in a policy, the next I’m visiting a service and hearing stories that remind me exactly why we do what we do.
I love meeting different teams, learning from them, and seeing the passion that runs through Keys Group. And yes, I’ll admit it—I enjoy a good spreadsheet. Someone has to.
But above all, I enjoy knowing that my work contributes to something meaningful. It’s a privilege to be part of a journey that changes lives.
For anyone considering applying for a role in care at Keys Group — do it. Absolutely do it.
If you want a job where no two days are the same, where you’ll grow both personally and professionally, and where you’ll make a real difference—this is the place.
You don’t need to arrive with all the answers. I certainly didn’t. What you need is heart, commitment, and a willingness to learn. The rest comes with time, support, and the right people around you.
And who knows – sixteen years later, you might find yourself writing something like this, wondering where the time went and feeling proud of every step.
Keys Group