Interview with Personal Development Trainer: Olivia

Today, I had the pleasure of interviewing Olivia, our Personal Development Trainer. She shared insights into her role at PCAS, her achievements, and her life outside of work.

What is a Practice Development Trainer, and what are some of your daily tasks and responsibilities?

My role encompasses all aspects of learning and development. I manage both online and face-to-face training sessions, covering topics such as Autism, Positive Behaviour Support, Epilepsy, and Active Support. I frequently visit our services to meet the users and understand their needs better. This helps me tailor training programs to provide person-centred support.

When did you join PCAS, and what do you love about working here?

I joined PCAS in November 2023. I love my job because I feel like I am making a difference in the lives of the people we support. The variety in my work ensures that no two days are the same. I particularly enjoy interacting with our service users, each of whom has a unique and memorable personality that brightens my day. One of my most rewarding experiences was helping a service user cook his own lunch for the first time in his life.

What inspired you to work in the social care sector?

I've wanted to work in the social care sector since I was 12 years old. At that age, I volunteered in a youth group, assisting teenagers with learning differences, and I immediately loved it. My biggest influence was my mum, who ran the local youth centre and encouraged me to pursue a career in social care.

Outside of work, what are your hobbies?

In my spare time, I enjoy being outdoors, appreciating nature, and birdwatching. I also love cooking and often find inspiration from foreign street food videos. I enjoy replicating authentic cuisine using the correct herbs and spices.