Hannah Parker – Service Support Manager, Norse Care

Having previously worked within a corporate male-oriented environment, Hannah Parker transferred into the care sector ten years ago. Today, as Service Support Manager, she works collaboratively with the Norse Care Senior Leadership Team, to ensure Norse Care services are maintained in accordance with the organisation’s requirements. She is sharing her story this International Women’s Day.

My career within Norse Care began in 2014, as a Business Administrator within Rose Meadow residential care home. Prior to joining Norse, my background was within the banking sector working as a Business Manager. Having returned on reduced hours, following a period of maternity leave, I realised that the personal banking services were dramatically changing to a more call-centre based environment which did not align to my values. I took this as an opportunity to have a complete change in career path as I wanted to give something back to the community. I ventured into Domiciliary Care and months later I knew I wanted to continue to work in the Health & Social Care sector long term but also to utilise my other skills and experience. The position at Rose Meadow was advertised, I applied, and the rest is history!

Having previously worked within a corporate male-oriented environment, transferring into the care sector, which is largely women dominated, was pleasing as opportunities were equal and based on experience, skills and ability.

Care is a regulated and highly responsible profession, as we are being entrusted to look after somebody’s relative or friend, so delivery of the highest quality of care is paramount. Working within the care industry is hugely rewarding, knowing that at the end of each day the work that you have been carrying out has improved somebody’s life.

Achievements for me come in different forms. Firstly, my own personal career progression through Norse Care, having been successful with various promotions since I joined – from Business Administrator within a single service to the role which I hold today. Secondly, knowing that we continue to strive to provide the best quality of care and improving people’s lives for those living within our services. Thirdly, supporting within services to deliver improvements for our residents and staff.

I have not faced many barriers within my career with Norse Care. The sector is challenging across varying elements however I strongly believe in keeping our residents and tenants at the forefront of our minds and working collaboratively with them allows most barriers to be overcome.

I have the privilege to work alongside some amazing women every day within my position at Norse Care. Every single day, I witness colleagues showing kindness, support and aspiring to achieve the very best outcomes for our staff and residents. Our residents are inspirational themselves, facing the challenges life throws at them with a smile of their faces.