Staff stories - Gemma's story: fancy a change?

Gemma works as a job coach at United Response.

She says the best thing about her job is not knowing what each day will bring.

Gemma graduated from university with an Art degree. Her first job was working for a theatrical make-up company.

She saw an advert in the local newspaper for Job Coach with United Response and applied for it.

Gemma had not worked in the care sector before, but she was interested in supporting people with learning disabilities to get into work.

Gemma says, "My job is about creating opportunities, you don't need social care experience to do that. You just need the right attitude."

Gemma says: "There isn't a typical day for me. My day could be any part of the job coaching process. The job coaching placement is different for each person so each day is pretty unique."

Gemma needed some training to do her job properly. She had to learn about Health and Safety, First Aid, Disability Awareness and Supporting People into Employment.

Gemma uses multi-tasking skills, time management skills and communication skills in her job.

Gemma uses her creative skills in her job too. She often works with pictures to communicate with people she supports.

Gemma has to be well organised. She has to manage the time she spends between making new contacts and supporting people in their workplace.

She says it is important not to be over sensitive.

Getting employers to take someone on can be very difficult. Most employers she talks to are nervous of employing people with learning disabilities. Gemma enjoys this challenge.

Gemma says, "My most memorable experience since being in post has been securing a paid position for the first person I worked with."

Working with several people requires time management. Gemma has to be organised to make sure everyone has the right amount of support.

If you are thinking about working for United Response, Gemma says, "just apply. You will be amazed what you can do with the skills you have."