Joan Spall, PA to the Head of Registration
I think I am one of the longer-serving members of staff at the GSCC, and before that CCETSW. During the 17 years that I have worked here I have seen many changes and experienced working for several teams so it is essential to adopt a flexible approach to support new demands. I enjoy my job immensely, am proud to have been involved in the registration process from the beginning and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead.
As PA to the Registration Manager my role involves working across many teams both here in the Rugby office and with our colleagues in London. My responsibilities include prioritising, meeting deadlines and, more importantly, the ability to multi-task.
Self-awareness and professional development are key areas promoted by the GSCC and we are all encouraged to take advantage of the training courses offered and to be able to expand and develop our knowledge.
Louise Hobbs, Contract Manager
I joined the GSCC as Contract Manager in September 2006 having moved from the Learning & Skills Council where I spent 11 years in contract management. In the short time that I have been with this organisation, I have come to realise two things, firstly, what a fantastic job the GSCC does, and secondly, what a huge impact they have made on the Social Care Sector.
In my role, I have two main functions; one is to manage the LogicaCMG contract on behalf of the four UK Social Care regulatory councils, in order to ensure the delivery of the business and operational objectives required from the contract, to implement the On-line Social Care Registration System (OSCAR). My other area of responsibility will be to provide support and advice to staff relating to the contractual issues of other GSCC contracts, in order to maintain the consistency of contract management procedures across the organisation.
On a personal note, one of my favourite pastimes is running, and I have competed in the Great North Run (a 1/2 marathon race based in Newcastle for those non-sporty people!!!) for the last 3 years on behalf of my 3-year old nephew to raise money for the Downs’ Syndrome Association. To date, I have raised almost £3,000 (I’m always on the lookout for sponsorship….so beware!!!), and my ultimate goal will be to take part in the London Marathon.
Andrew Skidmore, Head of Quality and Business Efficiency
Developing something new is exciting and demanding work! So many people have high expectations of what the General Social Care Council will bring to the sector, and it is really quite a challenge to play a part in making this reality. I've been involved from the beginning, and I'm now working with colleagues to continue and develop our work in registering the social care workforce and dealing with concerns about registered social care workers.
I work with a keen and committed group of people and it's so rewarding to see
the results of months of labour as the register grows.
Bridget Makepeace, Registration Officer
Before joining the GSCC, I worked full-time in an interesting job, but had a toddler at home and limited childcare. I found myself in a position where I was looking for a role that enabled me to work part-time whilst performing a role that was not only interesting, but not appallingly paid either!
I was successful in obtaining a role on the Registration Team, where I work on the internationally qualified section. We check out the qualifications, experience and backgrounds of people who have qualified abroad and who wish to come and work as Social Workers in the UK. What really pleased me is that everyone gets the opportunity to become involved in project teams - as a part-time worker, I thought I might be overlooked for development opportunities, but this has never been the case.
I have been involved in several project teams to date focussing on improving our processes, and have also been involved in helping the GSCC prepare for Investors in People. There are opportunities for advancement for job-share employees as well, if that is what they want to do.
My toddler has now started school, and I have been able to adjust my working hours to suit my new circumstances. After working in firms that were far less family-friendly, I really appreciate the way the GSCC help me to balance family responsibilities with a rewarding job.
Laura Harris, Caseworker
I think the GSCC is a good organisation to work for as we are regulating the social care profession and therefore we are helping to protect vulnerable service users. I started working for the General Social Care Council in July 2001 in the International Recognition Team. In March 2006, I took up a position as an Investigations Caseworker in the Conduct Team. My role as a Caseworker involves investigating complaints against registered social care workers. I gather and assess evidence and write reports and make recommendations to Committees. I will see the case through the Conduct Process until a final decision is made. I enjoy my role as it is challenging and I enjoy being stretched. I also enjoy the opportunity to leave my desk as I am often travelling around the country taking witness statements and attending hearings.'