Before starting with Enable Ireland, I had limited care experience. I cared for my mother when she had been unwell, and I used to train underage kids in Camogie, but that was the closest I’d been to a caring role. At college, I did an Interior Design course. Then I had my own upholstery and sewing business. Unfortunately, COVID-19 restrictions really affected my business. I also had my first son to take care of, and so I made the difficult decision to close my business. The world had changed a lot, and I found myself wondering what to do next.

I met Noel Regan, who is the CE Scheme Supervisor in Limerick. When he told me about the CE Scheme, I was surprised to learn about the varied roles that were available. I didn’t think there would be opportunities to do social care, but the chance to work in this type of role excited me. I hadn’t realised that you could upskill through a CE scheme, and that they’d pay for your course.

I was quite nervous as I had never done anything like caring. But from the first day, I felt so welcomed and part of the crew by both the staff and service owners!

The team at Enable Ireland are fantastic. It’s important to work in a place where you feel valued, and that’s true of Enable Ireland. I’ve been treated the same throughout my whole journey with Enable.

My CE Scheme Supervisor, Noel, was brilliant. He advised me on courses to take to upskill and what qualifications would help us stand out when it came time to apply for jobs. It was Noel who pointed me towards the Major Award in Healthcare.

He was a great help while I was studying. He helped me navigate the course and advised on how the training would translate into a job. This helped to keep me focused and motivated. Noel assisted me in managing my time and the work schedule so we could work on the course during the day. From the management down, everyone is so supportive and understanding. The door is always open.

The course was intense, but working within Enable Ireland while doing it was a great help. I achieved a distinction! If you’d have asked me before, I never thought I’d be able to do it.

When you work in a caring environment, you know within a week whether it’s for you. It’s not for everyone, but I couldn’t recommend it enough. It’s more of a vocation than a job.

Working as part of a team was also a revelation. I adore it. With my upholstery business, I mostly worked alone. It was so different. I realised I’m much happier within myself when I’m working in a team.

I have got so much from the CE Scheme. It has changed my life for the better. I’d tell others to go for it! I went down the health care assistant route, but there are many areas and roles available. Like, childcare, Disability Support Worker, Driver and others. Plus, with Noel, you get a great steer. You’re never alone; there is always support and guidance available. So, 100% I’d say go for it!

The CE Scheme got me through a tough time and brought so many positives. Now I wouldn’t change my job for the world!