Andy Lawson, with his infectious smile and broad Scottish accent, is a beacon of positivity at Avocet Court, where he has worked as a Lifestyles Coordinator since March 2023.
His journey from the masculine world of the construction site to the nurturing environment of dementia care is a testament to his adaptability and dedication to making a difference in people’s lives.
Born and raised in Strathaven, just outside Glasgow, Andy’s early years were rooted in a love for baking. He attended the Glasgow College of Food and Technology, training as a baker, a career he worked in for a number of years after leaving school.
However, life took him in a different direction, and he soon found himself working as a labourer and hod carrier on building sites, eventually becoming a skilled scaffolder.
Leaving Scotland the construction industry became Andy’s primary workplace, but the housing slump of the 1980s saw him pivot back to his baking roots, this time in Tottenham Court Road, London. Alongside baking, he dabbled in electrical work, serving as a spark’s mate on the iconic Canary Wharf building. He married and started a family, welcoming a son and a daughter who are now in their 20s.
Fast forward to the post-COVID era, and Andy, like many in the construction industry, faced a downturn in opportunities as confidence in the building industry fell. Finished with a project in February 2023, a serendipitous flyer from Avocet Court advertising a recruitment open day arrived at his door.
Though he had never considered a career in care, Andy decided to attend the event. Although he felt the care role might not be the right fit, an opportunity to work as a Lifestyles Coordinator was suggested, and he has never looked back since.
Transitioning from the building site to the care industry was a significant shift. Andy found the new environment to be more relaxed and fulfilling, a change his wife quickly noticed and appreciated.
“I love this job; it’s fun and rewarding. My role is to entertain and keep people happy,” Andy shares with a grin.
Based in the Harlech community at Avocet Court, he engages with approximately 30 residents living with dementia, leading activities that promote interaction. From regular giant snakes and ladders and bingo to music and quizzes, Andy’s efforts help stimulate memories and foster conversation among the residents. And there’s nothing he enjoys more than whole-home events such as the 1950s ball where he can dress up for the event.
One of Andy’s favourite parts of the day is greeting the residents every morning. “The best part is coming in and seeing the residents. They’re always pleased to see me, and I love to see them,” he says.
His passion for music has led him to spearhead the “Singing for the Brain” initiative at Avocet Court, where he encourages everyone to join in, even those who are typically non-verbal. “I love funk, soul, jazz, and I’m always singing. It’s amazing to get everyone involved.”
Having been with Avocet Court for just over a year, Andy reflects on his journey with gratitude. The job is close to home, allowing him to spend more time with his family and enjoy his gardening hobby in his spare time.
Andy’s message to anyone considering a career in care, even without prior experience, is clear: “Definitely give it a go. Every day is different and there’s loads of job satisfaction. I go home every day knowing I have made people happy.”
His story is an inspiring example of how a career change can lead to unexpected joy and fulfilment, proving that it’s never too late to find a new path.
