From Horses to Healthcare: Sarah’s Journey into a Career in Care

When Sarah left school, a career in care wasn’t part of the plan. In fact, she had her sights set on something completely different. However, after a decade working with horses and a personal experience caring for a loved one, her path took an unexpected turn, one that would lead her to a fulfilling and meaningful career in care.

Now based at Ranfurly Care Home in Scotland, Sarah has built her career with Anavo from the ground up. Fast forward to today, and she has progressed from Care Assistant to Senior Carer, and now into a Regional Trainer role, proving just how far a career in care can take you.

We sat down with her to hear more about her journey, what care really means to her, and why it’s so much more than people think.

Tell us about your background, what did you want to do when you left school?

It was completely different. I actually wanted to be a forensic scientist, but I’d always worked with horses growing up. From quite a young age, I was working on a local farm, then at a riding school. I left school at 16 after my GCSEs and went straight into working.

I worked at a few places first, like Pets at Home and Greggs, then I got the opportunity to work on a competition show jumping yard. That was a big thing for me. Both my sisters had done the same.

I stayed in that world for about 10 years, working with horses in different roles, including on a stud farm with racehorses.

What led you to a career in care?

It was when my nana became unwell. I helped care for her, and when I moved back up to Scotland at 26, I was looking for a job.

I heard there was a role going in care and thought, ‘do you know what, I’ll give it a go.’ I moved into care when I was 27 and I’ve been here ever since.

What do you love most about working in care?

Honestly, it’s the small things. Even just putting a smile on a resident’s face for five seconds, if you’ve done something so small that makes them smile, that makes you feel really good.

Is there a moment that has stayed with you?

There are two that really stand out. There was a man who didn’t have any family and always seemed quite alone. I took a bit of a shine to him, and on my days off I’d go out and buy him some new clothes. He was always so thankful. It was just those small things that made me feel like I was making a difference.

There was also a woman who didn’t really like many people, but she took a shine to me. I was one of the younger staff, and she’d always say, ‘come here, hen.’ She could be quite agitated with others, but she seemed more at ease when I was there. That made me feel really good too.

How did you find the transition into care?

It was quite difficult at first. I’d spent 10 years working outside, so going into a job where I was inside for 12-hour shifts felt very strange. It took some getting used to. But although there have been tough times, I’ve really enjoyed my journey so far.

Tell us about your career at Anavo

I started as a carer in 2017. Over time, I was encouraged by my manager to do my SVQ Level 3 instead of Level 2, with the aim of progressing into a senior role. I had already been stepping up on the unit when seniors were off, so that was recognised.

I moved into a Senior Carer role and really grew in confidence. It was a big step up in responsibility, but I took it in my stride. I’ve just started a new role as a Regional Trainer.”

That’s amazing, what does your new role involve?

It’s really exciting, but also a bit scary! I’ll be delivering training across four homes in the  Glasgow area, things like manual handling, basic life support, catheter care, and more.

I found out about the role while helping out at another home. I had already been doing training in manual handling, and I realised I really enjoyed that side of the job.

I applied, went through the interview process, and thankfully got the role. It’s a huge learning opportunity, and I’m really looking forward to it.

What are you most excited about in this next step?

I am looking forward to a new challenge. I like having a goal and working towards it. In care, you can get to a point where you feel comfortable, but this role gives me something new to learn and develop in. It’s a big opportunity, and I’m really grateful for it.

What’s it like working at Anavo?

There’s more support and more involvement from leaders. You actually meet and work alongside them, which wasn’t something I experienced before.

It feels more personal. People know who you are, and that makes a big difference.

What would you say to someone thinking about a career in care?

I would say, it might seem like a tough job, but the reward you get is worth it. There are  days where you might go home upset, but then the next day you can have the best day ever.

The biggest thing I would say is, it’s not just a job. Before I started, I thought it was just about personal care, but it’s so much more than that. You’re supporting people, you’re their lifeline, their happiness. It’s such an important role, and it’s so much more than people think.

At Anavo, we’re proud to support people from all backgrounds to build meaningful and rewarding careers in care.

If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, feel supported, and truly make a difference every day, there’s a place for you here. Click here to find out more about careers at Anavo.