We have been talking to Teresa Wilding, Family Carer Adviser (Duty)
How long have you been in your role, and what, in a few words, does it involve?
I have only been in this role since the start of January this year. There is some administration with the role but primarily I am speaking to family carers on the telephone, who have contacted us or been referred to us, for information, advice and support.
Is this your first job within Suffolk Family Carers, or have you moved throughout the organisation?
I joined Suffolk Family Carers in November 2022 to work in the Hub, which is where all the telephone calls come in to the organisation initially.
What attracted you to work for the charity?
Possibly what attracts most people who work for a charity – the opportunity to interact with people and make a difference.
What makes you passionate about the role of ‘the carer’? Tell us what motivates you to serve in this important arena (and do please let us know if you’ve personal experience as a carer):
My Dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014 and it felt overwhelming at first to know how to support him and where to go for information as well as dealing with all the emotions you feel when a family member receives such a diagnosis. My experience with Dad highlighted for me how important being a family carer is and being able to be just a small part of their support network is a privilege.
What does a typical work day look like?
I am not sure there is a typical day! It would always involve speaking to family carers on the telephone, listening to their situation and signposting them to other support which may be beneficial to them.
Do you have any particularly exciting projects or initiatives you’re working on for SFC right now, and if so, what are they?
My role of Duty Worker is a new role and so it’s exciting seeing how this is evolving.
Outside of your Suffolk Family Carers world, how do you like to spend your time, and who with? (tell us as much as you feel comfortable to, about family, hobbies and interests)
I live in a village on the outskirts of Ipswich with my husband, one of my daughters and Milo, our Sealyham Terrier. My other daughter lives nearby. I enjoy going for walks with Milo, going to our community cinema, gardening and crafting activities when time allows.
How do your family or colleagues describe you?
As someone who is not very good as saying no and that includes whenever I am offered a cup of tea!
Do you have a surprise skill which few know about you?
No, not really – maybe sewing, but everyone knows I love the Sewing Bee.
What do you love most about living in Suffolk, and are there particular places and spaces you love to go (Covid permitting, in a ‘normal’ world)?
I love that there are so many beautiful places to walk. I particularly enjoy going to the coast and I often go to Felixstowe.
Name three words which sum up the role of a carer:
Advocacy, kindness, support
