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Case Studies

It is impossible to describe an average day on the care team at Douglas House, as every day is so diverse. In an average week I will support up to 8 different guests who have a variety of life-limiting conditions, medical and personal care needs, interests, and communication methods (from speech, to sign language, to eye-pointing and body language).

In the last year I have attended a number of funerals, and supported young people and their families through end-of-life illness. I have taken part in boat trips, music groups, sensory sessions, art workshops, and jumped out of a plane as a fundraising bid! One of our guests, when consulted during the design phase, requested a ‘hotel with 24 hour nursing care’, and I’d like to think we go some way to achieving that.

Rachel, Douglas House Care Team

I joined Helen & Douglas House 2 years ago after an eclectic choice of jobs which included making bone china cufflinks and selling flooring! I had been unhappy in my last position and a friend pointed out that the charity was advertising for a Personal Assistant to the Head of Care and Front of House Secretary at Douglas House. I applied and have been here ever since! As well as being PA to the Head of Care and Front of House Secretary, I also manage the front office and its team of lovely volunteers.

I love working here because it’s so full of life and energy and every day is full of surprises. The organisation is also really supportive in regards to education and training. In the last year I have undertaken an NVQ Level 3 in Business and Administration - and passed!

Lara, PA to Head of Care, Douglas House

I am still very proud to be part of Helen & Douglas House. We meet so many interesting people and it is a privilege to be alongside the families and children.

Marilyn, Helen House Care Team member since the opening in 1982

I started working for the charity in 2007 as the Assistant Manager in the Helen & Douglas House charity shop in Oxford’s Covered Market. It was a part time job and at that time was perfect for me as I was still finishing my degree. I’d been on a tour of the two Houses, but I have to admit that I didn’t know an awful lot about the charity and actually learnt a great deal from the other staff, volunteers and even customers.

After graduating I spent a few months volunteering in the fundraising office while I looked for full time work, until eventually I was offered a permanent job in the team!

Although I work on specific campaigns and projects, no two days are the same and I’m very fortunate to be part of a fundraising team that actually works on site at Helen & Douglas House. Like everyone else sometimes I’ll have a bad day in the office, but I know that tomorrow I’ll be reminded how important our work is - I feel privileged to be part of something like that!

Laura, Individuals Fundraiser

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