Laura Gillett, the first face you meet at Care City.. well at least she was in the “Before Times” as Ben Williams calls the days when Covid was unheard of and “is that a residual hand?” was not a phrase we used daily. As Care City shut its doors and working from home began, discussions took place as to how we could make best use of Laura’s skill set, given that naturally we no longer needed a Receptionist. A true collaborator, with great relationships with our partners, attention to detail and determination for self improvement, she was the perfect candidate to join our Project Support Team. Described as “the glue” for our NELHCP Careers project, she holds the project team and the project together, but little did we know she harboured a burning ambition…to be a Forensic Scientist. So exactly how did this career aspiration begin…?

Born in Redbridge, raised in Dagenham, Laura is our East London girl. When she was little she dreamt of being a Make Up Artist, a Dog Groomer and a Hairdresser. But studying Science at Jo Richardson Community School, Laura developed a real interest in Forensic Science. Believing this to be an unrealistic pursuit however, she completed a NVQ Level 2 qualification in Hairdressing at Redbridge College. She hated it! And although she is still happy to cut her family’s hair, she draws the line cutting hair for anyone else “incase I ruin their hair” she quotes!

Then followed five years working as a Customer Service Assistant at Asda, before commencing a Business Administration Apprenticeship for LBBD working within their Electoral Services Department – something she did love (and continues to support the administration of Polling Day). However a year later, when searching for a healthcare role in the NHS, she came across our Care City job advert and a new chapter began.

Laura is the first to admit that with Care City her confidence has grown and grown. And it’s this new found confidence that with Care City’s help, has seen her be accepted to London Metropolitan University to study a BSc in Forensic Science. 

“I’ve always been interested in crime dramas having grown up watching The Bill and CSI, but didn’t have the resources to pursue my dreams. But being part of the team at Care City, developing new relationships, being pushed to develop my skills and learn from others has helped build my confidence and I’ve realised this is the time to go for it. Care City not only supported my request to work part-time to enable me to study, they helped and coached me through the application process and celebrated with me when I received the offer letter. 

It’s a six year course, but Laura’s plans don’t stop there. After graduation she is hoping to do a Masters in either Toxicology or Crime Scene Investigation. “Or I may do both” she says!

There is no holding Laura back now. In fact in truth, there never has been. A county pool player for Essex, she is also ranked number 106 in World Women’s snooker. Stephen Hendry even recorded her 27th birthday celebration video message.

However she is ranked number one in Jessie’s eyes, Laura’s beloved collie – and we’re pretty sure the feeling is mutual