Staff Spotlight - Ashley Carrington
How long have you worked in the aged care industry and in our aged care services?
For fourteen years - during those years I also raised my beautiful daughter Charlotte as a single mum. I also studied and completed various business and aged care certificates.
I've worked as the Day Centre Coordinator at Burrangiri Respite Centre for the last 13 months and every day, even if difficult, has been a pleasure and a blessing. I have continued to study to gain as much knowledge as possible to help assist our clients and the business.
I believe my passion is making a difference. I love helping people, listening to people and learning from people. If I can make one person feel happy and supported, it's all worth it for me. The smiles and laughter mean everything.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I absolutely love every aspect of my job as Coordinator of our Day Centre. The staff and clients make it a truly magical place to work every day. I am lucky enough to hear amazing life stories from our clients. The love within our Day Centre grows every day.
I am proud to work within The Salvation Army and honoured to work alongside Officers and other staff. Wearing The Salvation Army shield means a great deal to me, and as I've said I am very proud to work within an organisation that supports many people and changes many lives.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is the opportunity I have to interact with the clients, carers and family members every day.
In our Day Centre, we are all like family, we all share a special bond. We laugh and joke while singing our hearts out. We have loved as a group and lost as a group. This amazing bond drives me every day to do better at my job; I want what is best for all my clients.
Our clients and the people I have the opportunity to meet are extraordinary; their life stories and history amaze me every day. The knowledge and understanding I have gained from these remarkable people? I can't put into words. I am blessed to be around such beautiful people every day.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to be with my daughter Charlotte who is 8 years old. We have all sorts of fun! I also like to visit my 101-year-old grandmother. She is the entire reason I chose a career in aged care in the first place - I wanted to make sure that aging people receive the best care possible.
I love music, art and reading. I am a total green thumb and love getting in the garden. I am also a car fanatic, and I love driving my car.
What advice would you give other aged care employees working in similar roles?
The advice I would give to other employees is, love your job, always try your best, enjoy yourself and listen to the stories of the people we support. Also, be proud to be a part of The Salvation Army Aged Care as each one of us, every day is helping someone. We are making a difference in so many lives. Keep up the good work!
