First City - Charlie Gunn

• April 03, 2023

Charlie Gunn - Digital Content Creator

• Joined First City: 2015
• Previous Positions: Carer, Resourcer, Junior Design & Group Talent Acquisition, HR & Recruitiment Team Lead

1. What excites you about working in healthcare?

No matter which piece of the puzzle you work within, we all join together to make a difference to as many people's lives as we can. I am proud to work alongside colleagues who are genuinely passionate about supporting others, whether that involves direct support or the work behind the scenes.

2. Tell us about your fondest memory when working with First City

There are too many memories to narrow down to just one. I feel like First City are my work family, they have supported me to grow through my different roles within the organisation. Support from my Manager has been above and beyond, she's always there for me no matter what and for that I am truly grateful.

Working as a carer I learned so much while supporting others. I loved hearing about my customers pasts, their hobbies and interests; including poetry and magic, recommendations for holiday destinations and theatre shows to see. I will always be thankful to one customer who taught me to crochet, a skill I have used to make items for my family and friends.

3. What advice would you give to someone new to care work?

Always put yourself in your customers shoes, and ask yourself how would you like to be supported?

Ignore the misconceptions of what the role of a carer entails, it's so much more than most people think. You could be the only person a customer sees in a day, your friendly face and warm smile could be the best part of that day. Remind yourself through the difficult moments of all the good you are doing for others.

Also, never be afraid to pick up the phone and call the office for advice or support. Remember you are not alone, we are one team, and we all have one goal - to support those in our community to the best of our ability.

4. Thinking about working for First City, how would you describe the company?

First City are a big family, we have overcome some very challenging times together, but as a team - we always find a way!

I have found First City to recognise and value your individual skillset, during my various office roles the Leadership team have incorporated my degree in Graphic Design in my duties, which has enabled me to combine two of my passions, creativity and helping others.

Progression is also something I have found within First City, for both my colleagues and personally. First City supported me to develop within HR and Recruitment through the CIPD Level 5 Diploma in Human Resource Management when I became the HR & Recruitment Team Lead. After my circumstances and work availability changed when I welcomed my second son, First City were extremely supportive, and I feel fortunate to be able to remain working within a company and alongside colleagues who strive to make a difference!

5. Do you have any other comments about working in healthcare, for First City or more stories to share?

Care work isn't for everyone, but how would you know if it's for you unless you try?

If you're nervous you could start off on a bank contract, test the water - then when you see how rewarding the role is, you'll be asking for that full-time, guaranteed hours contract in no time!

All it takes is a call to 01793 313044 or an email to recruitment@firstcitygroup.co.uk to take the first step in your healthcare journey!