Unfortunately, in the world of live-in care it can often be a case of ‘dog eat dog’ especially in the summertime when carers are plentiful and ready to work. Often it may seem like there are too many carers and too few clients. It is during these frustrating months that many carers find themselves out of a placement or replaced by another carer.
Until you have built up a regular client or two to return to you may one day find that this happens to you. While you may not have any definite proof that another carer is ‘doing you down’, you may have a gut feeling that you are being pushed aside or even replaced by someone who wants that position rather than being without a placement.
Even though we all know that this is a very unkind and low thing to do to another carer, it does and will happen.
So, how do I handle this?
In a situation like this there are some things that you can do and some that you may not want to do. It is never a good idea to approach the offending carer as this will only spark a row. She will possible complain to the family and because she has been there longer than you, they may well believe her over you. You will find yourself without a placement.
If you decide to approach the family, you should make sure that you have as much documented evidence as you can. Keep a record of anything the other carer has said or done, as well as the dates.
If you are certain that you are being discriminated against then ask to speak to a family member in private. Put your case across slowly and clearly and with no accusations other than what you have recorded. Whether they believe you and see your side will depend on them so you should prepare yourself to lose this argument.
Even if your points are more valid than an offending carer, family will often side with the carer who has been there the longest because they perceive that she is more familiar with their loved one.
If you feel that you are being pushed aside the first thing you may want to do then, is to speak to your agency or your support team. Make sure that the point you are trying to make is valid and grounded instead of a vague complaint.
While most agencies will not remove a carer from a placement because she does not like you and wants you out of the picture, they will at least listen and make a note in her file about her attitude. This may influence her future bookings.
To sum up
It is an unfortunate trend during the summer months and often sounds as if carers are literally knifing each other in the back for placements. At the end of the day, after you have spoken to your agency and perhaps the family, there is really nothing you can do. The client (or family) get to have the final say about who they hire, and they may choose someone who has been there longer simply for convenience.
What is important is that if this is ever done to you and you find yourself out of a placement because another carer is returning, that you behave with dignity and as gracefully as you can. Walk away knowing that you are the better person.
Know that karma is a very real thing and what goes around will also come around. There will be other clients and possibly better ones, and more importantly, if the family have chosen her then you are better off working elsewhere.
Tags:
© 2025 EJOBBOARD LTD. All Rights Reserved.