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News

Thinking About a Career in Care? Meet Hayley, One of Bluebird Care's Newest Pathway 1 Team Members

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South West

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9th July 2026

9th July 2026

Starting a new career can feel like a big step, especially if you're moving into a completely new industry. One of the questions we hear most often is, "Will I receive enough training and support?"

For Hayley, who recently joined the Pathway 1 team at Bluebird Care Taunton & Mid-Devon, the answer has been a resounding yes.

Just one month into her new role, Hayley has already discovered how rewarding a career in care can be and how the right training and support can help you feel confident from day one.

Comprehensive Training That Builds Confidence

At Bluebird Care Taunton & Mid-Devon, we believe exceptional care starts with exceptional training.

Before supporting customers independently, Hayley completed an in-depth training programme designed to prepare every new team member for real-life care situations.

Her training included:

  • Face-to-face practical training
  • Online learning modules
  • Hands-on guidance from experienced trainers
  • Two weeks shadowing experienced colleagues in the community

This combination of classroom learning and real-world experience gave Hayley the opportunity to develop both the practical skills and confidence needed to provide safe, compassionate, person-centred care.

By the time she began visiting customers independently, she felt fully prepared for the role.

Learning From Experienced Colleagues

One of the most valuable parts of Hayley's induction was spending two weeks shadowing experienced members of the Pathway 1 team.

Working alongside skilled carers allowed her to see first-hand how Bluebird Care delivers outstanding support to customers returning home from hospital.

From building relationships with customers to encouraging independence and confidence, shadowing gave Hayley the chance to learn from experienced professionals while gradually developing her own skills.

A Team That Feels Like Family

When asked about her experience so far, one thing stood out above everything else: the support she has received from her colleagues and management team.

Hayley described Bluebird Care as feeling "like one big family."

She explained that whenever she has a question or needs advice, the management team are always there to help.

"Anything you need, they're just a phone call away."

Knowing there is always someone available for guidance gives new starters the reassurance and confidence they need as they settle into their role.

A Rewarding Career That Makes a Difference

For Hayley, one of the biggest surprises has been just how rewarding working in care is.

As a member of the Pathway 1 team, she supports people returning home from hospital following illness, injury or surgery.

Pathway 1, previously known as Discharge to Assess (D2A), helps people recover safely at home while rebuilding confidence and independence.

Every day brings the opportunity to support someone through an important stage of their recovery, helping them regain everyday skills and return to living independently.

Seeing customers progress and knowing you've played a part in that journey makes every day meaningful.

What Is Pathway 1?

Pathway 1 is an NHS-supported service that helps people transition safely from hospital back into their own homes.

Rather than remaining in hospital while longer-term needs are assessed, customers receive short-term support at home to help them recover, rebuild confidence and regain independence.

Bluebird Care's Pathway 1 team works closely with customers by providing:

  • Personal care
  • Mobility support
  • Medication support
  • Encouragement and reassurance
  • Help with daily routines
  • Support to regain independence

The aim is always to help people return to living as independently as possible.

Could a Career in Pathway 1 Be Right for You?

If you are looking for a career where you can make a genuine difference every day, Pathway 1 could be the perfect opportunity.

You do not need years of care experience to get started. With comprehensive training, ongoing support and experienced colleagues by your side, Bluebird Care Taunton & Mid-Devon will help you build the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

Whether you are changing careers, returning to work or simply looking for something more meaningful, you will be joining a supportive team that is passionate about helping people recover and live independently.

Join the Bluebird Care Team

Bluebird Care Taunton & Mid-Devon is currently recruiting new members to join its Pathway 1 team.

If you are compassionate, motivated and looking for a career where your work genuinely matters, we would love to hear from you.

Apply online today and discover why so many people, like Hayley, are finding a rewarding new career with Bluebird Care.

Because great care starts with great people, and great people deserve the support to succeed.

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