Proud to Care

James Nwatu tells us why he is Proud to Care.

James Nwatu is proudly caring in the community following successful completion of the Proud to Care programme.

Proud to Care is an initiative delivered by Ongo Recruitment, in partnership with North Lincolnshire Council, to deliver their aim of providing quality care across the region.

Is there anything that made you want to become a carer?
There’s a passion within me that makes me want to care for others. I was a carer for my brother, back in Nigeria, who has Sickle Cell disease. I did everything for him, including when he had a major crisis which led to a seizure and a coma. This left him with partial paralysis on the left side of his body. He was bed ridden so I helped him with his personal care, including exercises to help him move normally again.

In Nigeria, I worked in construction, as a tiler and a bricklayer, but I knew I wanted to do something which had a direct impact on human life.

Can you tell me how you heard about Ongo Recruitment?
I was referred by a friend to Ongo Recruitment – I knew Ongo was a social housing provider but when I heard about the Proud to Care programme I thought, let’s go!

What did you enjoy the most about the Proud to Care programme?
I enjoyed everything. The focus outcome is amazing, through the programme we were given all we needed be successful. It’s a lifechanging platform!

Would you recommend the Proud to Care programme to others?
I would, I’ve already referred two of my friends.

Do you have any other goals for the future?
I’m potentially looking to become a nurse, to help people in a broader way.

I’d like to thank Ongo as an organisation for supporting this initiative, and a thank you to Raine, my instructor. Also thank you to Belinda, who is constantly asking how I’m getting on. She has really helped me by providing support. She has been available and on hand when I’ve needed her most, she is a workaholic!

The Proud to Care Recruitment Hub is located from the team’s office on Cole Street, Scunthorpe, with candidates benefitting from a full induction programme; ‘Introduction to Care’ for those wishing to go into permanent care, and then an ‘Induction to Care’, for those wishing to join the agency bank.

Those looking to work in the care sector can also benefit from incentives such as a £330 bonus*, funded childcare, a £40 refer a friend voucher, as well as part-funded transport** options when choosing the Proud to Care programme.

*A bonus is payable upon securing a job and completing four shifts (not including shadow shifts) within an eight-week period. The bonus is subject to a tax deduction.
** Wheels-to-Work offers those that have gained employment the opportunity to apply for transport (an e-bike or an electric moped; 50cc or 125cc) for a small deposit and a monthly payment. Those wishing to take part in the scheme must provide evidence that they can safely secure the bikes.