Caring comes naturally to Wendy

Caring for people comes naturally to Wendy Anderson. As a mother of nine children, she also chooses to care for both the residents and staff at Feros Village Bangalow where she’s been working for 17 years.

” I’ve found my niche,” said Wendy.

“As a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother and an aged-care worker, caring and compassion is just an ongoing part of my role in life.”

It is a role she took on at 16 when her father passed away and her mother was having a baby.

“There were parts of my personal life that prepared me for my professional life and now caring for others just comes naturally to me,” she says.

Wendy has a strong sense of responsibility for her team and her residents, ensuring they all feel supported and safe.

“Feros becomes your family as well,” she said.

“As a team leader it’s my role to be a mentor to the other carers and I’m always looking out for them.

“Aged-care can be a very difficult job and I recognise the impact it can have on people so it’s something I’m always mindful of.

“Being able to support my staff, walk alongside them and let them know they can come to me with anything that’s bothering them is extremely important.”

In her nearly two decades at Feros Village Bangalow, Wendy has also touched the lives of hundreds of residents and their families.

“What brings me joy is knowing that I’ve done the best I can for someone,” she said.

“People suffering from dementia can be difficult as they simply don’t understand what we’re trying to do. But sometimes you get a little ‘thank you’ and it means a lot as it shows they recognise that you’re trying to help them.”

Wendy said caring for people was a privilege.

“To be able to care for somebody right through their time of need, and to be there to support not just the resident but their family in an end-of-life situation, is something I don’t take lightly,” she said.

“People thank me but it’s my pleasure to be part of their family’s experience and to be able to help in a small way.”

Wendy said she wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.

“I will stay here until I retire,” she said.

“There’s a good staff culture and a supportive network and team.

“Feros Care has given me opportunities to further my education through the 7 Star Program where I was mentored and taught about many facets of the organisation. I also completed my Certificate 4 in Residential Aged Care and Community Leadership  to become a team leader; Certificate 4 in Frontline Management and I’ve up-skilled in many areas including continence advisory, ACFI and Manual Handling Training.

“It’s fantastic to work for an employer that really values and supports the ongoing education of its staff which, in turn, results in better care for clients.”

Wendy said she encouraged others to consider a career in aged care.

“It’s a very rewarding career in terms of the comfort you can provide residents and their families,” she said.

Are you considering a career in aged care or disability? Click here to browse opportunities with Feros Care.