Health & Wellbeing Coordinator

Joanne Ellison

Working for the Rossendale Trust is not just a job, it is a career choice. Health & Wellbeing Coordinator, Joanne Ellison, explains how a change of career has led to her making a difference in the lives of our tenants.

Before joining the Rossendale Trust, I had a long career in the Macclesfield silk industry. Starting as a sketcher at Brocklehurst Fabrics, I climbed the ranks to become the Design Director at Adamley Textiles.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point for me. Faced with redundancy, I chose to pivot away from the fashion industry and toward a career that would make a meaningful impact on society. My desire to contribute to the care sector was inspired by my husband’s experiences as a nurse and the challenges that the industry faced which were highlighted during the pandemic. This led me to the Rossendale Trust.

I initially contacted the Trust seeking a volunteer position, whereupon it was suggested that I apply for a paid role. I began working at Riverside as a Support Worker where my skills were recognized and rewarded and I soon advanced to a Senior Support Worker position.

My passion for promoting health and wellbeing (H&W) was evident as I transitioned into the H&W Coordinator role at Rose Gardens, and later at Riverside. This was the ideal opportunity for me to progress my career in the Trust. I could see that in this role I could now really begin to make a difference in peoples’ lives by looking after and promoting their Health and Wellbeing, and I could now begin to create a standard across the Trust that would benefit many people.

By working at different sites around the Trust I gained a real insight into the Trust works and I have been able to implement vital initiatives, such as organising home eye tests for tenants who previously faced barriers to accessing opticians. By dedicating time to this role, I could meticulously address the health needs of tenants, enhancing their quality of life.

My maternity cover stint as the H&W Coordinator at Canalside further broadened my understanding of the Trust’s diverse needs. Collaborating closely with my counterpart at Canalside, I strive to establish a uniform standard of care across the Trust, reinforcing its reputation as a provider of excellence.

My role continues to evolve, and my commitment to the tenants’ wellbeing remains steadfast. I am currently organising visits from therapy animals to enrich the lives of the Trust’s tenants. My hands-on approach, which includes regular shifts across different areas, ensures I stay attuned to the day-to-day needs of those in my care.

When I started working at the Trust 5 years ago, I never imagined that I would be where I am today. The Rossendale Trust supports its employees, offering a nurturing environment where they can thrive and make a tangible difference. My journey from the silk industry to Health & Wellbeing Co-Ordinator exemplifies the Trust’s dedication to fostering growth and promoting a culture of care. Since starting to work here, I have not only enhanced the lives of the Trust’s tenants but also set a standard that inspires both my colleagues and prospective employees.

 My progression is a shining example of the opportunities available at the Rossendale Trust for those who are passionate about making a difference.