Townend Close carer wins top apprenticeship award

A carer from Townend Close care home has beaten off competition from other apprentices to win the Rising Star of the Year Award 2021.

Isla Williams, 18, who started working at Anchor’s Townend Close care home in Crosshills in March 2020, was presented with a trophy and certificate this week.

She will now be entered into a national competition run by National Apprenticeship Service vying against apprentices from across the country.

Isla has become a key member of the care team at Anchor’s Townend Close and has built excellent relationships with residents and colleagues. She is passionate about engaging residents in sporting and creative activities and revamped a resource trolley so carers could offer activities in different locations of the home. She is also a talented singer who has shared her voice and musical skills with residents.  

Isla has immensely enjoyed her apprenticeship and the skills it has provided her with. She said:

My apprenticeship with Anchor Hanover has been an amazing experience. I have learnt so much and developed not only in my work but also as a person. I have been able to improve my English and IT skills and grow my confidence through talking to new people and developing working relationships with residents. After attending a workshop on life stories Isla began helping residents develop their own stories and has used her creativity to capture this in great ways by developing one-page profiles and scrapbooks with residents. The best part of working in care for me is to hear all the amazing stories and experiences that the residents have had and to have the privilege of working with them to create scrapbooks and life stories for their care plans and for them to look through. Each day at work is a new learning experience and it is amazing to make a difference in people’s lives. I would encourage anyone who is considering an apprenticeship with Anchor Hanover to just go for it!

Sharon Mackie, Manager at Anchor’s Townend Close, praised Isla for all her hard work. She said:

What stands out about Isla is her initiative, passion and upbeat approach. She has been proactive in engaging with residents and increasing activities in the home which has had a positive effect on residents’ wellbeing. Isla has demonstrated commitment and dedication to residents and I wholeheartedly congratulate her on her win. She exemplifies how working within the care sector is much more varied than is realised and can be exceptionally fulfilling.

With over 400 learners up and down the country, The Anchor Hanover Apprenticeship Programme provides apprentices with some of the most comprehensive training in the business. Apprentices can obtain qualifications in care, catering, customer service and administration roles. 

Sharon added:

The apprentice programme has brought so much in the way of new ideas and talented individuals right at the start of what we hope to be long and successful careers. The hands-on nature of learning through apprenticeships is great for those wondering what it would be like to work in the care sector. Our awards have highlighted true success stories.

For more information on Anchor’s apprenticeship programme, contact 0800 731 2020.