Meet Helen Thompson Learning and Development Specialist

I have been fortunate enough to have worked in the healthcare sector for the past 13 years. I am passionate about sharing with others all I have learnt over the years, empowering them to make a difference, daily, in our carers and customers’ lives. I chose to work for Helping Hands to continue to inspire, mentor, train and support both branch staff and carers.  

Career pathway

Before joining Helping Hands, I worked for six years in a specialist dementia / mental health unit where I observed, absorbed and put into practice what outstanding care looks like. I deliver training to our carers who provide hourly and live-in care, as well as to branch staff. The aim of this training is to ensure understanding of the different types of dementia and how to handle any distressed behaviours they may encounter, using the correct approach. Properly trained carers can have a very positive impact caring for those who are living with dementia.  

Before having children of my own I had a 9-year career as a private nanny, living in New York & London for many years. 

Qualifications and Professional Development

People Handling & Risk Assessment Key Trainers Certificate 2025 

Welsh Passport Train the Trainer 2024 

Breakaway training 2024 

EAT L3 – Teacher Training 2022 

Dementia Care Matters 8-week training program – 2015 

Train the Trainer Moving & Handling 2014, 2016, 2021 

Level 2 & 3 Adult Social Care 2015 & 2016 

CH3 and MAPA safe restraint training 2016 & 2017. 

NNEB – Nursery Nurse Education Board 1994-1996.