Women’s Day – this month, the world celebrates the achievements and potential of women across all industries and sectors. We typically hear people speaking out about the contribution of women in the workplace and the opportunity cost of failing to be inclusive. Well, amid this backdrop, it’s time to fly the flag of the health and social care sector.
Askham is just one example of what’s evident across the sector: women can and do lead large, complex organisations effectively and consistently. In finance, it’s celebrated when a senior team is over 50% female. In care, it’s the norm. In law, flexible working at the highest levels is something working mums fight for. In care, it’s the norm.
Recruitment and retention is one of our biggest challenges, which is no different to any other care provider. The work we expect staff to do each day is gruelling and often thankless. Yet multiple staff at Askham routinely juggle the daily challenges of work and home life with skill and compassion – resulting in a careful, committed approach to everything they do.
Whether it’s flexible working around childcare or looking after unwell relatives, or being supported in study alongside daily work duties, the culture of care extends beyond residents to our staff. The dignity and respect afforded to residents applies to those who both live and work at Askham – empowering all staff to be their best selves irrespective of gender. In this environment, we are proud to see our female staff flourishing.
It’s important to note though, that the determination, ambition and compassion displayed by women in the care sector is something to be celebrated all year round – not just in March!
Aliyyah-Begum Nasser is a Director at Askham Village Community, a specialist rehabilitation and care community situated on the edge of Doddington, between Peterborough and Cambridge. A family-run business of over 30 years, it provides specialist care and rehab for the very young to the elderly, offering day visits, respite or long-term care, goal-focussed rehabilitation, and continuing reablement support.
