Congratulations Nickie

• May 23, 2023

Nickie Lapham

• Department: Intermediate & Reablement Services (aka Front Door)
• Joined First City: November 2017

Nickie joined First City in 2017 after taking a break from the healthcare industry. Previously she had worked as a homecarer for another provider and had been deciding whether to return to working in care or not. It was a conversation with a friend that sparked Nickie's interest in applying to First City, they explained the difference in the role within the front door team, and the enjoyment they got from it. Nickie phoned First City, spoke to a coordinator and the rest is history!

Although experienced in the care industry, when she first joined the team everything felt 'alien' to Nickie. She explained that 'we could keep ringing in to the company', whereas in her previous role this wasn't done, as it was seen as annoying. First City encourage all colleagues to call with any questions and for support, and as Nickie pointed out, you tend to have a lot of questions when starting with a new company, she went on to explain that it was difficult to get used to, but it was better and more helpful.

Initially joining the team on a fixed term contract, Nickie took a step back, deciding a bank contract would be more suitable for her circumstances, where on a week by week basis she could give availability for work. After a while, when looking at her availability, it became apparent that she was still picking up the shifts and fulfilling the fixed term requirements and so it made sense to transfer back to this contract.

During her time with First City, Nickie has always found the support great and colleagues to be helpful, she explained that she has had some issues, but they have always been dealt with sympathetically and individually with understanding. She has found her Department Lead, Magda to be a brilliant help. She hasn't typically needed to go higher for any problems or support, as a coordinator or Magda have always sorted it, and she knows the team is always there for support.

Recently Nickie was observed by our Colleague Development & Mentoring Lead, during a spot check, where she was asked why she isn't a Team Leader. Nickie's answer was that she 'really didn't know', she had previously thought about it but had decided she didn't want the additional responsibilities or more training and didn't really know what the role entailed. After a discussion with Magda, it was highlighted that she was already fulfilling much of the Team Leader role to an excellent standard. Nickie has decided that now is the right time to take this next step, saying that 'I think I'd excel in the role, I've got the experience, the patience, and hopefully the personality for it'.

Nickie is mostly looking forward to taking this next step to share her knowledge and enthusiasm for the role with others. She is looking forward to the responsibility of giving others her take on care and making sure they're also doing a good job, as everyone should start on the right foot.

We would like to say a big congratulations to Nickie for taking the next step to become a Team Leader, we know your knowledge and passion for what you do will help support and guide colleagues on their #FirstCityJourney!

If you are on a bank contract and have been considering your availability and the move to a fixed-term contract, please speak to your team about your options.