Not your Ordinary Student Job

When I first began contracting with Mycare I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine the adventures, insights and inspiration that this type of work has offered me.

When I first started to spend an hour a week with a lady called Clare who is crazy about Scrabble. So began our visits. I soon discovered Clare’s brilliance on the Scrabble battlefield. I am receiving quite an education in obscure Scottish terminology. However, the visits are about more than just Scrabble.

In the beginning I had my reservations about spending an hour a week with someone who was generations apart from me. Would we have anything in common? Would it be awkward? However, the moment I met Clare all my concerns dissipated. The pocket money I get from her son, who pays for the visits, is nice, sure, but it’s more about spending time relaxing and chilling out with good company. Like Clare, I’m fortunate to have a full and busy life. What I love about visiting her is that it’s time to recharge and take it slow. Visiting is never a strain. We both have lived very different lives and I enjoy sharing stories and spending time.

Mycare connects people so that they can be independent and ensures that everyone can be part of their community. At my age it is easy to take independence for granted. However, being with Clare has taught me to encourage others to take steps to be more independent. It was in the spirit of independence that I suggested to Clare that perhaps we could try going for a bike ride. She had mentioned to me in passing that she wanted to get out on her bike more, but I don’t think she had ever thought of doing it with me. Considering she had had a knee replacement and was feeling a little apprehensive about jumping on a bike she took to it like a duck to water.

It was such great fun getting out and seeing the joy that independence gave her. Being a Mycare worker means you can help people take charge and live their life on their own terms. Clare is a wonderfully independent woman and I can hardly keep up with her.

I want to be like that when I’m older!

If you have questions about they type of support our workers offer or need a little help, contact the Customer Engagement Team on 09 887 9777, or email hello@mycare.co.nz.