Jennifer Aitken

When did you join ELCAP and what were you doing before you joined us?

I joined ELCAP in August 2017.  For 11 years before that, I was a Catering Assistant – dinner lady – with East Lothian Council at Ross High School, Tranent.

What do you like most about your job?

I find my job very rewarding.  I enjoy supporting the individual I work with to be out and about in the community, leading the best life she can and wants to.

I enjoy being part of a team, working together to support the individual to achieve her goals. This can sometimes be challenging – especially during COVID – but I am proud of how we overcome challenges together.

ELCAP is committed to continuous improvement.  Do you have any suggestions to make ELCAP better?

Maybe someone neutral for staff to talk to – without breaking confidentiality – about any concerns they may have regarding their or a colleague’s well-being or mental health.

We should also think about weekend staff contracts. I know a few individuals who would be happy to work weekends, as they have young families or other commitments during the week. Weekends would suit them, but ELCAP doesn’t currently offer weekend contracts.

What is your favourite film?  And what makes it special for you?

Grease. I’m probably showing my age here, but it reminds me of myself and my friend when we were teenagers.

You are having a dinner party.  What is your dream dinner and who are your dream dinner guests?

Sunday roast with the Peaky Blinders.   😂

What’s the best thing about living and working in East Lothian?

I work in the community where I live.  I know the people and places.  And I assist and support the individuals I work with to play an active part in our community.

If you ruled the world, what would you change?

All the usual stuff – poverty, racism, equality. Everyone is equal and has the right to be treated fairly with dignity and respect

Can you tell us something about yourself that might surprise us?

I didn’t have much confidence before I joined ELCAP, but I have really come out of my shell.

Other than that nothing else is appropriate to share.  Ha ha! 😂