Catch-up with Rachel
Today, we're speaking with Rachel Hickman, a Senior Support Worker at our Fordsfield Day Centre in Leamington Spa. Rachel is excited to share insights about her role and the joy she experiences in her work.
A fantastic selfie with Rachel (left) and Harriet!
Thank you Rachel, for chatting with us today! Tell us a little about yourself and how you started to work for Heart of England Mencap.
“Hello, I have worked for Heart of England Mencap for 3 years now, and in this particular role for 1 year - I absolutely love it! Before this, I spent 15 years working in a care home for the elderly, but I felt the need for a new challenge. Whilst browsing job openings on Indeed, I came across some wonderful reviews for Heart of England Mencap and knew this was the right company for me. Now, 3 years on, coming to work is like coming to hang out with all my friends - customers and staff!
Today, you’re supporting Harriet to attend one of her favourite sessions - Horse Riding. How do you feel as you watch her take part?
“The joy you get from watching her development is AMAZING! Harriet has come on so well and you can see how much she enjoys it by the way she smiles and laughs and the way she engages with the RDA team. I feel privileged to be able to support Harriet, and all the other customers at Fordsfield, to do the activities they love to do each day”
Harriet and her favourite horse Cherry!
Harriet attends the Lowlands RDA Centre in Warwickshire every week.
What do you feel are the main benefits for our members engaging in activities such as Horse Riding?
“It offers lots of opportunities that they wouldn't find elsewhere. Engaging with these magnificent animals enhances their mental well-being and significantly boosts their confidence, particularly in this activity compared to others, in my opinion.”
Tell us a little more about your work at Forsdsfield. What do you like so much about it?
I have a mix of working in the office and supporting members 1:1. It’s a really nice balance to have and keeps the role interesting and enjoyable. I wouldn’t change it for the world!
Okay…Finally, tell us one random thing about yourself.
“My favourite food is Smash with cheese and gravy, followed by Black Cherry crumble and custard!”
A heartfelt thank you, Rachel, for taking the time to join us today and sharing insights about yourself and your work at Heart of England Mencap. It has been a pleasure chatting with you and learning about the many positive aspects of your role, as well as what it truly means to you.
If Rachel's story has inspired you and you'd like to share your own, we would be thrilled to hear from you! Please reach out via email at: KButtrick@heartofenglandmencap.org.uk.