Manuela Peach

Lead Adult Care Worker apprentice, Black Swan Care Group

Manuela entered the care sector during the Covid-19 pandemic, following redundancy from her role in finance. With uncertainty in the job market, she chose to work where support was urgently needed; joining a care home for elderly residents with dementia. Although the role was challenging, she found it deeply rewarding. Manuela realised her passion lay in care, prompting her to seek a new position supporting individuals with learning difficulties and autism.

She began her new role as bank staff, working on a flexible, temporary basis. Manuela quickly discovered how much she enjoyed supporting the residents and soon became a full-time team member. After six months, she was offered a senior role but chose to wait until she felt ready. Over the next two years, she built her skills and confidence before stepping into the senior support worker position.

To support her development, Manuela enrolled on the Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker apprenticeship. She saw the programme as a way to gain deeper insights and practical knowledge that would help her make a meaningful impact. The apprenticeship gave her a fresh perspective on her work, enabling her to identify new opportunities to improve resident wellbeing and implement changes that were well received by both residents and management.

Manuela approaches her role with motivation, dedication, and a proactive mindset. She’s confident in speaking up when improvements are needed and consistently pushes herself outside her comfort zone to drive positive change.