‘A Career in Care’ – with Katie Lee

Katie has been the Deputy Manager at St Augustine’s care home since September 2020. Starting in the healthcare sector as a part-time domiciliary Care Assistant, she has then reached NVQ Level 5 over the years.

We had a great talk with her about pursuing a rewarding career and working in healthcare.

Firstly, tell us who is Katie Lee?

I was born in West Sussex and moved to Devon when I was 11, I met my husband when I was eighteen and we relocated to Hampshire. I have two children – Samuel who is 20 and at university in London, and Isabelle who is 17 and studying for A-Levels. I love spending time with my family and caring for our ever-growing pet collection!

Why did you choose St Augustine’s as your workplace?

I loved St Augustine’s from the minute I first walked through the door! Its warmth and kindness struck me as soon as I arrived. The dedication that Aurea (Manager), Sister Isabel and Katalin (Head Of Care) showed towards the residents and staff truly inspired me to want to become a part of the team.

With time, I’ve realised that joining St Augustine’s is not only joining a workplace, I was truly joining a family. Everyone here strives to deliver the highest standards of care. They all do so with kindness and compassion, they really work with the Sisters Hospitallers values at the heart of everything they do. It is simply unique!

That also reflects on our residents’ close relationship with the staff. A heart-warming memory I still remember from my second day here was when I passed by a resident in the hallway, and she looked at me and said “good morning, Katie”. It may seem like a small thing, but it made me feel so welcome already!

What was your experience in healthcare before joining Sisters Hospitallers?

I started work as a domiciliary Care Assistant many years ago when my children were small. I wanted a part-time job that not only fitted around my family commitments but was also rewarding. I worked my way up through the company during the 10 years of employment, but then decided to join another small domiciliary care company which had just registered. I stayed with them for over three years and helped them expand and grow their business. Immediately before joining St Augustine’s, I managed a supported living service for adults with autism and challenging behaviours.

Taking a look at the job roles you’ve had over the years, which one have you enjoyed the most? And which one was the most challenging?

The time I enjoyed most was building my career at my first workplace, where I moved from Care Worker, Senior Carer, Coordinator and finally Management. To remain in one company for so long gave me a real opportunity to develop and build lasting relationships with my colleagues and the people we supported. Like many people who work in care, I’m sure the biggest challenge has been managing service through Covid-19. The huge impact it has had on the industry and in particular, the people we support has been immense.

As Deputy Manager, what does your normal day look like?

No two days are the same! My day can change minute by minute. Tasks can range from interviewing potential new staff to liaising with families and professionals, carrying out Covid-19 tests and course the best part of my day is spending time with the residents.

I am lucky enough to say that just being here is the best part of my day! Also, our staff team is so supportive that I know I can always share any difficulties I may face at any time.

What would you say to someone thinking about joining Sisters Hospitallers?

If you have a passion to care and a desire to make a difference, join us! A career in care is so rewarding, you won’t regret it. The special thing about Sisters Hospitallers is working so closely with the sisters. They bring so much wisdom, compassion, and dedication, that they truly inspire us to live the Sisters Hospitallers’ values every day.