Friendships forged through work may be commonplace, but it is difficult to replicate the bonds formed by those in the care profession and their customers, as Jayde Bullock can testify.

“It is a love that you feel for each other, a caring bond that you create with customers and it is a feeling you won’t understand until you experience it,” she said.

That sums up the attraction of working as a carer for 24-year-old Jayde, who knew where she wanted to focus her career after spending a school work experience placement in a home for the elderly.

She produced a series of glittering academic results in social care subjects and went straight into a job at 18 with Disability Action Yorkshire, working at their care home in her hometown of Harrogate.

That put her in contact with resident Nick Moxon as a one-to-one carer and an enduring bond was created.

Jayde believes she has job satisfaction she would not get elsewhere and residents like Nick enjoy a similar boost to their quality of life.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Resident Nick MoxonResident Nick Moxon

Nick said: “Jayde keeps me on my toes; basically, she is part of my family. During the pandemic, it has been really difficult for me and other residents and it has been really great to have that connection with someone who understands your personal needs and can help you out.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Jayde, if it wasn’t for carers like her we would not be able to lead the lives that we do. She has a completely selfless attitude and it is tremendous,” he said.

Jayde’s working days involve helping to meet the needs of those cared for by Disability Action Yorkshire, but also spending social time with them, as a care assistant.

While the job may be satisfying, it also provides the opportunities to make career progress and Jayde is currently studying for advanced qualifications which will help her career.

The ability to study while working means those who would prefer to opt out of full-time education can find a way forwards in the care sector.