Learning life skills and confidence through care

An unclear future after leaving school

Starting a career in care has transformed Carly's life. After years of struggling with her mental health and anxiety, joining Cera has helped her find confidence, purpose and a new sense of self.

Carly began working as a carer in March 2025, just a few months after turning 18. She hadn't attended college because of her mental health and says she felt lost after leaving school at 16. 

"I didn’t know what I wanted to do – I just felt stuck."

Taking a chance on care

Her mum works in care, so Carly had seen first-hand how rewarding the role could be and decided to give it a try. "I told myself to do one month – if I couldn’t do it, I'd stop. But after four weeks, there was no way I was going anywhere."

Since then, the change has been remarkable. 

As Carly settled into her new role, her confidence soared, and she no longer felt held back by anxiety. 

"My family, friends and even the people I care for say they've seen me grow into myself."

A job that brings joy

Carly loves her day-to-day role, especially helping people start their mornings with comfort and care. "I enjoy knowing I can make someone's morning that bit easier," she says. 

"When I visit service users, they always thank me, but I tell them it goes both ways – I want to thank them for giving me confidence and a job I love. When I see service users are happy and laughing, that makes me happy too."

Carly has found a job that motivates her to get out of bed in the morning. "Even if I struggle a bit, or I'm not sure, I'm always fine once I'm out caring and helping people – I feel complete for the day."

Learning skills for life

Working in care has taught Carly invaluable life skills – from overcoming her fears when meeting new people to managing her own wellbeing. "It's helped me learn how to look after myself and taught me things everyone should learn while they’re young."

The impact has reached beyond work – she's more confident speaking to new people, goes out more, and makes an effort to help others outside of work.

Carly is constantly developing. "Every day I'm building my knowledge and learning something new, this job has opened my eyes to so many opportunities", she explains.

A brighter future

The team at Cera have been a huge support for Carly and understands when she finds things difficult. "It is hard sometimes, but there's always someone at the end of the phone to talk to."

Motivated to keep growing, Carly is now looking at learning how to drive – something she wouldn't have dreamed of being able to do before – and is interested in furthering her career into medication or care planning.

"Starting my career in care has been a saviour for me," Carly says. "I can see how much I've grown – it's the best thing I've ever done."