Care

Meet Ace Francisco, BCS Willmette Cottage

When did you start working for BCS?
I began working with BCS as a Care Service Employee [CSE] in August 2006.

Briefly describe your present role at BCS?
I am employed as a CSE at BCS Willmette Cottage, an overnight respite facility in Carlingford.

My role includes:
- Assisting clients with daily living activities, such as personal hygiene, preparing meals and ensuring clients meet their nutritional needs.
- Providing mental, physical and social interaction.
- I also assist in the overall maintenance of the cottage and presentation of the facility.

The role of a care service employee is a diverse one. We are counsellors, nurses, clowns, maintenance men, chefs, cleaners and many others, all in one.

What do you most enjoy about your work at BCS?
I have always enjoyed the fact that I come to work each week and find new faces with new stories and new challenges. It’s a privilege to meet new people and share in their lives.

What would you say to someone considering a career in aged care?
I would say that the aged care sector is the best place for up and coming, young nurses because through working with the elderly, you learn to be compassionate, patient and open minded. Not only is aged care a great starting point for young nurses, but it also provides different opportunities. For example, one day you can be a care service employee and, through dedication and commitment, the doors can open on a career track that can take you to a role such as Executive Care Manager of a facility.