Dedicated carer celebrated after retiring 36 years to the day she started work in social care

Local Bourne lady, Janice Day, has retired following an incredible 36-year career in social care.

Mark Milton, CEO joined work colleagues across Lincolnshire to pay tribute to her  for her outstanding career.

At the Grantham Office in late July, Janice was surprised when presented with gifts in recognition of her dedication and devotion to those she has cared for so passionately over the course of her career.

Janice’s early career saw her working as an auxiliary nurse at St Peter’s Hospital. She later moved into social care and in 1997 she began working at Blackthorn Way where she has remained ever since.

Blackthorn Way  is a supported living service providing round the clock care for 4 adults with a learning disability and Janice has loved every minute of her job, stating that no day in the last 36 years has ever been the same!

“There is no such thing as an average day!  I’m a carer, a cook, taxi driver, entertainer and cleaner – but most of all, I’m a friend, We are all things to the people we care for, but I’ve based my career on ensuring that I treat the people I support as I’d like to be treated myself. The last 36 years have not felt like a job. The staff and tenants at Blackthorn Way are my second family and I’ve known some of them since the service opened 24 years ago.”

Personal reasons have brought Janice’s retirement forward sooner than she had hoped; however, she is not stopping completely. Janice continues:

“I have decided to stay on as a volunteer. The tenants are my family and whilst I can’t work full time, I still have more to give, which volunteering will allow me to do.”

Mark Milton, CEO, praised Janice for her unwavering passion and dedication. He says:

“Janice has worked tirelessly throughout her career to help people live individual lives and be supported in the best way for them. Her efforts are limitless and her contribution to both those she has cared for and staff members at Blackthorn Way are exceptional, she will be hugely missed.”