A FORMER shop owner from Rhyl who retrained as a social care worker after selling her business has won a top national award, little more than a year after entering the sector.

Karen Dean, who ran a convenience store with her family for 30 years, was inspired to become a care worker after hearing about her friend’s experiences nursing her grandparents at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 56-year-old has been working as a support worker with Cartref Ni Ltd since September 2023, helping to care for three adults with varying learning disabilities in their own home in Rhuddlan.

The grandmother-of-two has now impressed the judges in the Wales Care Awards 2024, scooping a coveted bronze award in what is dubbed the care industry “Oscars”.

Karen received the gong at a ceremony at Holland House Hotel in Cardiff, hosted by radio and TV presenter Jason Mohammad.

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She said: “It’s nice to be nominated; the industry doesn’t get too much in the way of good publicity and it should. 

“I had a complete career change after owning a convenience store with my husband for 30 years. We sold it just before COVID and at that point I started looking for part-time work.

“For about a year, I went to work in Glan Clwyd Hospital for the British Red Cross, supporting people in A&E which involved talking to patients and getting them food and drinks.

“I also did book-keeping for a while for my son who runs a plumbing business before I spotted an advert for Cartref Ni and thought I’d give it a try.

“Every day is different. Although my children would probably disagree, I think I must be very patient, and I also think you need to have a caring nature to be a care worker.

“It’s something you must enjoy, you can’t just do your shift and walk away, because you naturally become attached.”

Karen was nominated by Cartref Ni service manager Samantha Dodd, as well as assistant manager Selina Davies, and a parent of one of the clients she supports.

She is described as a “breath of fresh air” and a caring person who is already working with the “best interests” of those she supports at heart.

Since September 2023, she has gained more than 25 training certificates with many over and above the statutory requirements.

These include person-centred care, risk assessments, nutrition and hydration and mental health. 

Karen also underwent Makaton sign language training for a lady she supports with autism, which has improved their communication and engagement.

“When you see them really happy and enjoying themselves you really feel like you’re making a difference to their lives,” she said.

“You start to see positive changes and with this lady in particular, it was lovely to know that she understands me. I’ve really enjoyed my time here, it’s not like going to work. There’s great job satisfaction – I just love it.”