Kirstie Blair
Kendal,Cumbria
Summary
Highly organised professional with expertise in diary management and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively in fast-paced, dynamic environments. Demonstrates strong safeguarding knowledge, effective communication skills, and a proven track record of handling sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism. Possesses comprehensive understanding of confidentiality and GDPR practices, alongside proficiency in IT systems across multiple platforms. Committed to maintaining high standards of organisation and confidentiality while contributing to operational efficiency.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
5986
5986
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Carer Services Practitioner
Carer Support South Lakes
Kendal, Cumbria
2022.09 - Current
- Running our counselling and telephone companionship services providing support to unpaid carers.
- Onboarding new trainee counsellors to the service.
- Liaising with volunteers and carers to arrange appointments for both services.
- Carrying out regular reviews with both carers and volunteers.
- Keeping detailed computer and excel logs of arranged appointments.
- Being aware of any issues raised by volunteers regarding safe guarding and possible carer breakdown.
- Adhered strictly to privacy rules, respecting confidentiality rights of all clients.
- I have also been an Adult Support Practitioner carrying out face to face carer assessments and reviews on behalf of Westmorland and Furness Council and signposting to other charities and the local authority where necessary.
- I was an outreach worker covering the South Lakes area reaching out to carers in more rural communities and I fronted up a project across the W&F Council area and identified nearly 300 hidden carers.
Dementia Adviser
Beyond Dementia
Devizes, Wiltshire
2017.04 - 2022.08
- To carry out assessments and reviews for carers and loved ones effected by dementia.
- To attend support groups and activities for those living with dementia.
- To sign post and refer to other charities and organisations to offer further support.
- Streamlined communication processes, improving team coordination.
- Facilitate a 6 week in house Carers Training course for carers.
Dementia Adviser
Alzheimers Society
Chippenham, Wiltshire
2015.11 - 2017.03
- Job specification as per Beyond Dementia but TUPE'd in March 2017.
Pharmacy Dispenser and Phlebotomist
The Tolsey Surgery
Sherston, Wiltshire
2008.05 - 2015.11
- To compile and dispense acute and repeat prescriptions for patients.
- Work on reception and book appointments whilst having a full understanding of the operating system.
- As a part of the practice team ensuring the effective day to day running of the surgery.
- Managed pharmacy inventory for optimal efficiency and accuracy in dispensing medication.
- Answered questions and offered advice to inform patients regarding prescription orders and upcoming appointments.
- Followed legal and professional standards, maintaining best possible compliance with applicable regulations.
- Reviewed prescriptions to assess prescription accuracy and safety.
- Maintained detailed prescription files for compliance and traceability purposes.
- Run phlebotomy clinics and updating patient records.
- Supported the pharmacist with daily tasks, resulting in a more efficient working environment.
Education
NVQ Level 2 - Pharmacy Services
DD&P
RemoteWootton Bassett Comprehensive
Swindon New College
Skills
- Good organisation skills and diary management
- Ability to prioritise work in a busy fast changing environment
- Safeguarding knowledge
- Effective communication skills and experience of dealing with difficult and sensitive situations
- Full understanding of confidentiality and GDPR practice
- IT skills across a number of different platforms
Affiliations
- I enjoy open water swimming and making the most of the area we live in, especially with my husband and dog. I also play with a local samba drumming band and enjoy the variety of gigs we get to play.
Timeline
Carer Services Practitioner
Carer Support South Lakes
2022.09 - Current
Dementia Adviser
Beyond Dementia
2017.04 - 2022.08
Dementia Adviser
Alzheimers Society
2015.11 - 2017.03
Pharmacy Dispenser and Phlebotomist
The Tolsey Surgery
2008.05 - 2015.11
NVQ Level 2 - Pharmacy Services
DD&P
Wootton Bassett Comprehensive
Swindon New College