A videographer has swapped his globetrotting career to become a wellbeing enabler at a Govan care home.
Pollokshields man Andrew Blake, 34, once worked national campaigns for President’s Choice, a grocery supplier in Canada, and telecommunications giant Rogers, and is now responsible for the mental and physical activities of elderly residents at Florence House.
A trip to New York presented him with the opportunity to work alongside photography heavyweights and set him up for a return to Scotland where he pursued photography and videography with fashion editorials, weddings and freelance campaigns forming the majority of his portfolio.
He said: "I had the career everyone envied, fast-paced, glamorous and I was working on some huge campaigns both in Scotland and overseas.
"As much as I enjoyed it, I wanted a career that made a difference to the everyday quality of life for people.
“After some reflection, I decided I wanted to try a new career, but I wasn’t sure where to start. Even though I am relatively still young, it is daunting trying to find a new job, a new sector and essentially start learning all over again.”
(Image: BIG Partnership)
He felt the job advert for the role at Florence House resonated with his caring personality.
He said: "I don’t have a background in nursing or social care but the role didn't require that.
"It needed someone who could form meaningful relationships with residents, develop engaging and stimulating activities and provide a sense of community for the people living in the care home.
"A big part of my role is to keep the residents connected to their community.
"We regularly engage with events in Govan, day trips and community events are a cornerstone of our social calendar."
(Image: BIG Partnership)
His career swap was praised by Sunita Poddar, founder and chief executive officer of Oakminster Healthcare, the group that runs Florence House.
She said: "A career in care is an accessible choice for many people from many different backgrounds.
"Andrew is a great example of our approach to recruitment; we need people with a caring and empathetic character that can forge meaningful relationships with our residents."
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