A Recruiter's Journey Through Aged Care: From the UK to Australia and New Zealand

I’m truly grateful to work with such incredible professionals, and when chatting with new clients, I often get asked why I love my job so much, or why I feel that I make a difference.

I thought it would be nice to share a bit about what makes my work so fulfilling with my network. As many of my contacts in aged care, who inspire me every day, would agree, it’s all about the passion and dedication we bring to our work.

My career in aged care recruitment began when I started my first business in the UK in 2003, during a time when the industry was on the cusp of significant transformation. As new care standards were introduced, I had the opportunity to help homes navigate these changes by introducing "Crisis Management" Teams—specialised groups dedicated to helping care homes achieve excellent inspection results.

This experience was incredibly rewarding and eye-opening, as well as a learning process for me. I saw firsthand how the right people, in the right roles, could turn around struggling facilities and ensure that residents received the high-quality care they deserved, I learnt a great deal about what makes an aged-care nurse tick. What makes a resilient, strong RN go on to be a leader of successful teams of nurses and how the transition from Nurse to Aged-Care Nurse can be a struggle with such reward at the end.

In 2010, I made the move to New Zealand and later expanded my focus to include Australia. Since then, I’ve continued to ensure that the best people are recruited into the aged care industry. Whether it's large providers with extensive resources, huge teams and growth challenges or smaller, home-from-home settings with small or sometimes non-existent HR teams, my goal has always been to place professionals who are not only skilled but also deeply committed to making a positive impact on the lives of our elders.

I’ve developed strong relationships with passionate industry leaders, and I really listen to what they want, value, and need.

When you think about aged care, what often comes to mind are the practicalities: ensuring health, safety, and comfort for our elderly population. However, the true essence of aged care goes beyond these basics. It's about creating environments where residents feel valued, respected, and, most importantly, loved. Creating the best environment for them in their last part of the journey of their life and understanding that both the resident and their loved ones are in a vulnerable position. The professionals I’ve had the honour of placing into roles embody this philosophy. They understand that aged care isn’t just a job—it’s a calling.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is hearing from these professionals about the bonds they form with residents. Many describe their workplaces as "second homes," where both staff and residents are part of an extended family. This sense of belonging is crucial because, for many, aged care is where they will spend the final chapter of their lives. Knowing that they are surrounded by people who care deeply about them brings immense comfort to both residents and their families. I truly enjoy not only placing the candidate at the best place possible for them, but the follow up; seeing them thrive and hearing from their colleagues about their growth, sharing their delight in their work and how they feel they really are making a difference.

Aged care in Australia and New Zealand has seen significant advancements over the years, with a strong emphasis on continuous improvement. The sector is heavily regulated, ensuring that facilities meet stringent standards of care. Whether it’s large providers with extensive resources or smaller, home-like settings, each plays a vital role in the ecosystem of aged care.

Large providers often lead the way in innovation, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of services to meet diverse needs. Meanwhile, smaller, more intimate care homes focus on creating a "home from home" environment, where personalised care and a close-knit community atmosphere are paramount. Both models have their strengths, and I’m proud to recruit professionals who excel in each of these settings, sometimes knowing that a candidate has stepped up and out of their comfort zones into new surroundings, bringing their own experiences and enthusiasm with them.

The professionals I place are not just meeting expectations; they are setting new benchmarks for what aged care can and should be. Whether it’s through innovative programs that engage residents in meaningful activities, or by creating homely environments that reflect the individual preferences of each resident, these teams are redefining aged care.

What I feel truly makes an impact working in aged care is the culture of compassion that permeates every level of care. This isn't just about being nice; it's about empathy and understanding the unique needs and desires of each individual resident. It’s about treating every resident with the dignity and respect they deserve as if they were your own family.

The nurses and managers I work with are chosen not just for their qualifications but for their values, their passion, their dedication. They are people who genuinely care about making a difference in the lives of the elderly. They are the kind of professionals who, when asked if they would trust their own parents in the homes where they work, can confidently say "yes."

The future of aged care in Australia and New Zealand is bright, and that’s largely due to the incredible people who work in this sector. As we continue to innovate and improve, one thing remains constant: the unwavering dedication to providing the best possible care for our elderly population.

For those of us in recruitment, there is no greater satisfaction than knowing we’ve helped place someone who will make a real difference in the lives of others. The professionals in aged care homes are not just carers; they are family, friends, and advocates for the residents they serve. They are the heart and soul of aged care, and it is an honour to support them in their vital work.

So, if you find yourself considering a new role to step into this rewarding field, or a change of scenery, or a new challenge, let's share our passion and dedication to ensuring the best possible care for our elderly community. Together, we can continue to make a difference.

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