Emily’s story: bringing digital experience back to care

Career progression can take many different paths, and sometimes the most rewarding opportunities are the ones you least expect. After nearly 14 years with Choice Care Group, Emily has experienced a varied career journey, progressing from joining the organisation without formal care qualifications to becoming a Digital Trainer and playing a key role in the implementation of ChoiceNourish across the organisation. 

Now, Emily is returning to a Registered Manager role, bringing with her the knowledge and experience she has gained through her time working in digital. We spoke to Emily about her career journey, what inspired her move into digital care, and why she is excited to bring that experience back into care management. 

“I have been part of Choice Care Group for nearly 14 years. When I first joined, I had no formal qualifications in care. Throughout my time with the organisation, I have been supported to complete my Level 2 and Level 3 care qualifications, the Foundation Managers course, my Level 5 Leader in Adult Care qualification and a training qualification. 

Choice Care has invested in my development throughout my career, giving me opportunities to learn and explore different roles. Without that support, I would not have progressed to where I am today.”

“Although I have always enjoyed working in care, becoming part of the ChoiceNourish pilot inspired me to explore a different direction within the sector. Being involved in the pilot opened my eyes to a new passion for digital care systems and the positive impact they can have on both colleagues and the people we support. 

I really enjoyed supporting the services to use ChoiceNourish confidently, and being part of its implementation across the organisation was incredibly rewarding. It gave me the opportunity to develop new skills and see first-hand how technology can support teams to work more effectively. 

As ChoiceNourish continues to evolve over the coming year, with developments such as eMAR integration (electronic Medication Administration Record) updated dashboards, and other enhancements to improve the user experience, I am excited to see the new developments implemented across our services.”

“What I have enjoyed most about being a Digital Trainer is helping services gain confidence in using ChoiceNourish and seeing the positive difference that makes to their day-to-day work. 

I have also loved visiting different services, meeting colleagues and the people we support across England and Wales and building relationships with teams along the way. Working in digital has given me a much broader understanding of how technology can support care delivery and the importance of making sure colleagues feel confident using the systems available to them.”

“I have really valued my time working in digital, but I have always remained passionate about care and supporting people to lead the lives they want to live. Returning to a Registered Manager role feels like an exciting next step and an opportunity to bring everything I have learned with me.”

“My experience in digital has given me a different perspective on how systems and technology can support teams to deliver high-quality care. I am looking forward to combining that knowledge with my experience in care management and using it to empower colleagues and the people we support.”

“My goal is to continue developing both personally and professionally while supporting colleagues to deliver the highest standards of care. 

Although I am returning to care management, I will continue to take an interest in the development of ChoiceNourish and the role technology can play in supporting services. My time as a Digital Trainer has given me valuable knowledge that I can bring into my new role, and I hope to continue sharing that experience with colleagues. 

I am excited about this next chapter and the opportunity to take everything I have learned throughout my career and use it to make a positive difference in my new role. 

For me, career development has never been about following one set path. It has been about being open to new opportunities and continuing to learn. I am proud of the journey I have taken so far and excited to see where the next chapter takes me.”