Helen Faulkener is used to playing a key role in looking after people.
Originally from Nottingham, she was part of the Navy Army Air Force Institute team that kept over 3,500 service personnel fed, watered and entertained at RAF Waddington – one of the UK’s busiest air bases and home to the Red Arrows.
“I was a NAAFI girl, working in the shops, the kitchen and bars on the base,” said Helen. “I was there for 27 years and absolutely loved it.”
She moved to Teesside to start a new life and when her children left school she found herself with more time and applied for a job as a care assistant at Longlands Care Home.
“Caring for people comes naturally to me so I thought I’d apply – I’m glad I did because I really enjoy the role and find it fulfilling,” said Helen.
Helen, 51, has been able to use hours working at Longlands towards gaining national vocational qualifications in health and social care and is currently studying for her level 3.
Her role involves administering personal care to residents as well as checking fluid and nutrient intake and helping those with mobility issues to move about. Having that vital sixth sense to realise when something isn’t right is also important.
“Some of the residents don’t like to make a fuss but when you get to know them you can sense when something isn’t quite right, open up a conversation and find out what the issue is so it can be dealt with,” said Helen.
To unwind she likes to meet up with friends at the local Beechwood and Easterside Social Club – and it’s not just there that she joins in with the entertainment.
“There’s a great programme of activities at Longlands and we are all one big team,” said Helen. When I’ve finished my duties I have been known to join in the singing and dancing with the residents.”
