What does it take to build a rewarding career in care? For Carol Corney, it started with a change of direction, a willingness to try something new and an opportunity to turn her passion for people into a career she loves.
As an Activities Coordinator at Lofthouse Grange and Lodge Care Home in Wakefield, Carol brings residents together through music, hobbies, outings and shared experiences. From organising singalongs to arranging special trips, she finds ways to make everyday life more enjoyable and meaningful.
Since joining Orchard Healthcare Group in February 2016, Carol has developed her skills, grown in confidence and discovered just how fulfilling working in care can be. With encouragement from her manager and the opportunity to learn on the job, she has built a career that draws on her natural creativity, compassion and ability to connect with others.
Her story shows that a career in care doesn’t always begin with experience in the sector. Sometimes, the right opportunity and support can help you discover a path you may never have considered.
From behind the bar to a rewarding career in care
Before joining Orchard Healthcare Group, Carol spent 25 years working behind a bar, building relationships with customers and creating a welcoming place for people to socialise.
Alongside her work, Carol cared for her mum, who was living with dementia. This personal experience gave her a deeper understanding of the importance of patience, compassion and support. Following her mum’s passing, Carol decided it was time to explore a new chapter in her professional life.
When an opportunity arose at Lofthouse Grange and Lodge Care Home, Carol took the leap into care.
Her natural love of singing, dancing and making people smile made becoming an Activities Coordinator a great fit. Encouraged by her manager, she stepped into the role and discovered how much she enjoyed helping residents stay connected to their interests and the things they love.
Orchard also allowed Carol to develop her knowledge and skills, including completing her Level 2 NVQ alongside her work.
Her journey demonstrates the value of recognising transferable skills. The communication, organisation and relationship-building skills Carol developed throughout her previous career provided a strong foundation for her new role.
For anyone considering a career change, her experience is a reminder that you don’t necessarily need a traditional background in care to get started. With the right opportunity and a willingness to learn, your existing skills could open the door to a fulfilling new career. Find out more information here: Care Jobs | Orchard Healthcare Group Careers
What does an Activities Coordinator do?
For Carol, no two days are quite the same. Her role is all about understanding what residents enjoy and finding opportunities to bring those interests into everyday life.
Her day begins by visiting residents, seeing how they’re feeling and chatting about what’s planned. She also takes time to speak with families and learn about residents’ backgrounds, hobbies and life experiences, helping her create activities that feel personal.
For someone who loves baking, that might mean making something delicious together. A music lover might enjoy a singalong that brings back fond memories, while a keen gardener could appreciate a trip to the garden centre.
These experiences help residents maintain familiar routines, explore new interests and enjoy time with others.
Carol also understands that being an Activities Coordinator involves much more than organising events. If a resident is feeling unwell, having a difficult day or simply needs some company, she makes time to sit with them and offer reassurance.
Sometimes, a friendly conversation is more valuable than any planned activity.
This thoughtful approach is an important part of person-centred care: understanding each resident as an individual and recognising that everyone has different interests, preferences and needs.
For Carol, getting this right means creating opportunities for residents to enjoy their days in ways that are meaningful to them.
A Leeds Rhinos reunion to remember
One of Carol’s most memorable experiences involved a resident with a special connection to Leeds Rhinos, having previously coached the rugby team in 1970.
Knowing how much the club meant to him, Carol helped arrange a visit to the rugby ground, giving him the opportunity to return to a place that had played an important part in his life.
During the visit, the resident met the club’s current CEO, whom he had coached in the past. He also had the chance to step back onto the pitch and revisit the dressing rooms.
It was an opportunity to reconnect with an important chapter of his life and revisit memories that meant so much to him and his family.
For Carol, seeing his smile made the experience unforgettable.
Read the full story here:
Leeds Rhinos legend who lives with dementia returns to rugby ground for VIP tour
Stories like this highlight how understanding someone’s life history can create opportunities that go far beyond everyday activities. By recognising residents’ achievements, passions and personal connections, care teams can help them continue to celebrate who they are and the experiences that have shaped their lives.
Carol’s advice for anyone considering a career in care
For anyone thinking about working in care, Carol’s advice is simple: be patient, be compassionate and genuinely care about people.
She believes listening is one of the most important parts of the job. Taking an interest in residents’ lives and understanding what they enjoy can help care staff create experiences that reflect their individual personalities and interests.
She also wants people to understand that working in care is about more than completing daily tasks. It’s an opportunity to build relationships, learn from others and play a meaningful part in their lives.
Could your next chapter start with Orchard?
Carol’s journey shows that a rewarding career in care can start in unexpected ways. With the right opportunity, encouragement and a willingness to learn, the skills you’ve gained throughout your life could help you build a career where you make a difference to others.
Carol got the chance to develop her skills and turn her passion for people into a fulfilling role. If you’re considering a career change or looking for your first role in care, you could find your own path with us, too.
Explore our latest care jobs and discover career opportunities with Orchard Healthcare Group.
