Caroline; A Personal Passion for Partnerships and Positive Change

Looking back on my 27 years with Guide Dogs UK, I’m filled with gratitude and pride for the incredible journey I’ve been on. I started as a trainee Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI), eager to learn and make a difference in the lives of those who rely on our dogs. Over the years, I’ve grown through various roles, from Service Delivery Manager for Wales to my last role with the organisation before founding United Partners, where I focused on the guide dog partnership journey—a role that resonates deeply with my passion for supporting these unique and life-changing partnerships.

From Trainee to Service Delivery Manager

When I first joined Guide Dogs UK, I never imagined the path my career would take. Those early days were all about understanding the needs of both the dogs and their owners, and I quickly realised how much I loved this work.

My journey took a significant step forward when I became the Service Delivery Manager for Wales. In this role, I had the privilege of overseeing all services across the region, ensuring that we delivered the best possible support to each partnership. I loved working closely with our teams and seeing the difference we made in people’s lives.

Eventually, my passion led me to a national role, where I was the process owner for the guide dog partnership journey on a larger scale. The role allowed me to bring my passion for partnerships to the forefront, ensuring that every guide dog and their handler received the support they need to thrive.

Embracing Continuous Improvement

Throughout my career, I’ve always been driven by a desire to make things better. That’s why I became a Six Sigma practitioner—because I believe that continuous improvement is key to delivering the best possible service. Whether it’s refining processes or finding new ways to support our partnerships, I’m always looking for opportunities to enhance what we do.

Soon, I’ll be starting a Scrum Master course, and I’m excited about the new skills and perspectives this will bring. Agile methodologies will offer fresh ways to approach challenges, and I’m eager to see how I can apply these principles to further improve the assistant partnership journey for school worldwide.

A Love for Horses and Positive Reinforcement

Outside of work, my passion for positive reinforcement training extends to my work with horses. A few years ago, a friend and I rescued a 16.2 hh chestnut thoroughbred mare who was in terrible condition, with a body score of just 1. It was heart breaking to see her so neglected, but through patience, choice, and positive reinforcement, we were able to rehabilitate her into the wonderful, healthy mare she is today.

A Lifelong Commitment

Reflecting on my Career, I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of so many life-changing journeys. My work has always been more than just a job—it’s a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of people and their service dogs. Supporting these partnerships has been the back drop to my life, and I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to make a difference.

As I look to the future, I’m excited to continue this journey with United Partners and the amazingly talented team I have around me, to learn new things, and to keep pushing for improvements that benefit our service users. I’m passionate about what I do, and I believe that with dedication, compassion, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we can keep making a real difference in the world.

Here’s to the next chapter—and to all the incredible partnerships still to come and working with many wonderful schools worldwide!

Me and my first born - Chilli