“My life has always revolved around health and social care,” starts Sarah Ainge.
This dedication to the sector began when she found her niche working with Mencap, aiding those with learning disabilities. “I loved that I could make an impact on a variety of people that were misunderstood and needed the extra help,” she says, her voice imbued with the satisfaction of enabling individuals to live independently.
Sarah’s career path took an unexpected detour when she embraced the adrenaline-fueled role of a retained firefighter, a rarity for women at the time. However, motherhood and a close call during a dangerous blaze prompted a reevaluation of priorities, steering her back to the health and social care sector.
With 16 years as an NVQ assessor under her belt, Sarah faced a personal battle with breast cancer in 2018, which led to a sabbatical for recovery and reflection. It was during this period that she questioned the increasingly academic nature of NVQ assessments, prompting a decisive career shift.
Now, as the Manager of Ashcott House, Sarah oversees a close-knit community of seven residents, cherishing the intimate setting that allows her to know each individual’s needs, wishes, and preferences. “I like the intimacy of me knowing these guys,” she shares, emphasising the importance of the ‘family feel’ in her approach to management.
Leadership Through Empathy and Engagement
Sarah embodies the quintessence of leadership within the care sector. Her approach is not one of distant command but of immersive engagement and example-setting. “One of the main things is to lead by example,” Sarah asserts, emphasising the importance of being willing to do what you expect of your staff. This philosophy has earned her the respect of her team, especially during the trying times of COVID-19 when she would personally cover shifts to ensure continuous care for the residents.
Sarah’s leadership style is characterised by a blend of camaraderie and accountability. She believes that a leader should not “rule with an iron fist” as it erodes the team’s respect and support. Instead, she fosters a culture where the home operates smoothly even in her absence.
Moreover, Sarah highlights the significance of a “fun nature” and a “willingness to go above and beyond.” She understands that a leader’s demeanour sets the tone for the entire home, affecting both staff and residents alike. By being open and approachable, Sarah creates an environment where staff feel comfortable discussing their problems, leading to a happier, more harmonious workplace.
In her own words, Sarah describes the ripple effect of leadership, “What starts at the top comes all the way down to the bottom.” She takes pride in the positive feedback from her staff, who appreciate her leadership style.
What’s more, Sarah also values collective decision-making, involving her team in the process to ensure their voices are heard and their contributions recognised. “It’s really important to involve everybody and show appreciation for things,” she notes, highlighting the diversity of perspectives as a strength in addressing challenges and fostering a sense of community.
Trends and Tribulations
Moving on, Sarah offers a candid perspective on the current trends affecting the sector. Post-COVID, the shift towards online self-diagnosis and the ensuing difficulties in obtaining timely health support have been significant hurdles. “It’s been difficult getting health and well-being support for individuals in this industry without waiting months,” Sarah explains, highlighting the inefficiencies of the referral system.
The introduction of weekly paramedic visits at Ashcott House has been a beneficial development, yet Sarah points out that non-emergency services, such as referrals to dieticians or occupational therapists, still face unacceptable delays.
Beyond the logistical challenges, Sarah identifies a profound knowledge gap within general practices and hospitals regarding individuals with learning disabilities and mental health issues. She expresses dismay at the lack of support, stating, “The mental health support just isn’t there.” This concern underscores the critical need for enhanced understanding and resources to address mental health.
The Ashcott House Manager is also acutely aware of the systemic issues plaguing the healthcare sector, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ainge’s concern is not just for her own predicament but for the residents under her care, who also face delays in receiving non-emergency treatments like dietetic advice or occupational therapy.
Kindness as a Legacy
As the conversation approaches the end, the essence of Sarah’s character shines through her aspirations for legacy. “Just do something for somebody they can’t do themselves,” she muses, encapsulating her philosophy in a simple yet profound statement. Ainge’s approach to life and work is underpinned by acts of kindness, a principle she holds dear and practices with conviction.
For Ainge, her legacy transcends professional achievements; it’s about the human connections and the positive impact she can leave on others. “It feels good to do good,” she reflects, acknowledging the intrinsic reward that comes from helping those in need. Her message is clear: kindness is easy to practise, and its ripple effects can be far-reaching, especially in the health and social care industry where she has dedicated her career. “There’s not enough kindness in this world,” she laments.
As our conversation with Ainge draws to a close, she reiterates the importance of understanding the motivations behind those who choose the path of care. The COVID-19 pandemic, while presenting unprecedented challenges, has also cast a spotlight on the critical role of frontline workers—a silver lining that Ainge appreciates. Her personal battles, including her fight against cancer, have only strengthened her resolve to find positivity in adversity and to encourage others to do the same.
Ultimately, Sarah’s legacy is not just about the tangible contributions she makes to Ashcott House, but also the ethos of kindness that she embodies and the hope that it will continue to inspire and influence long after her tenure. In a world often marred by harshness, Ainge’s unwavering commitment to kindness serves as a powerful reminder of the good that humanity is capable of.
