A health assistant at a Northamptonshire care home recently graduated from university and says her job role has helped her to reach her goal.
Charmain Rufaro Binga, works at MHA Rushden Park and joined the home in 2018, when she left sixth form.
She is not the only member of her household who works at the 65 bed home, specialising in residential and nursing care, as her mum has also worked there for more than 10 years.
Charmaine graduated in Health and Wellbeing in Society from the DeMontfort University and is currently studying her Masters in Social Work from the same university and is due to graduate later this year.
The 22-year-old said: “Working at MHA Rushden Park was my first job and I absolutely love it.
“I had no experience of working in a care home before so it was a little scary to begin with, but the team were really welcoming and it’s been life changing for me.
“My mum works at the home and it really feels like a family environment, and I am so happy.
“Working at MHA Rushden Park has really helped me with my degree and the experience I have gained has been very important.
“I am looking to graduate again later this year, and I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I would love to utilise my education and combine it with my skills and continue working for MHA.”
Jacqueline Jaynes, home manager said: “Charmaine joined us as Healthcare assistant on leaving sixth form in May 2018 initially to start University to do a nursing degree, however one year into the course Charmaine diversified into social work.
“During her employment here we have watched her as she has grown into a mature and confident individual proving popular amongst her peers and our residents proving to be an extremely valuable and reliable team member.
“We are more than proud of her accomplishments to date and that in some small way Charmaine’s experience here at MHA Rushden Park has influenced and underpinned her career choice.”
