A grandmother-of-seven has told her story of how losing her husband to cancer inspired her to pursue a new career in social care.

Diane Howells, 60, was unsure where her life was heading after the death of husband Stephen in 2013.

She had also been made redundant from her job at Tesco after 23 years, and moved to north London from the Midlands to live her daughter.

It was there she decided to enrol on an apprenticeship in health and social care.

“I had no background in it but had spent a lot of time caring for Stephen and raised my family and thought it was something I could do," said Diane.

“I enjoyed going to college and all the training, and learnt so much. At first, I thought I am going to be the oldest one there, but it didn’t matter. There were people of all ages and backgrounds – young mums and some men wanting a career change.

“It opened my eyes, and showed me there are so many things I can do, and it’s given me so much more confidence.

"The training I had was excellent, and I still use my portfolio of coursework from college to refer to.”

The apprenticeship took place at GlenPat Homes in Winchmore Hill, which provides a residential care home and a purpose-built block of flats along with care support for people with learning disabilities.

Towards the end of the apprenticeship, Mrs Howells was taken on as a support worker at and after her skills were recognised she was soon promoted to a more senior role.

Theo Akem, services manager at GlenPat Homes, said: “Diane has a passion for working in care and has excelled in her job. She took to the role very quickly and is now leading her own team. She us one of the best staff I have here.”

The apprenticeship was provided through the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).

Mrs Howells added: “I work with a lovely team and the job is so varied. It’s given me a new lease of life. I just wish I had done it when I was younger!

“Stephen would have said do what you want to do now, and it’s all worked out wonderfully. He would have been very proud.”

Mrs Howells was the first apprentice to be placed at GlenPat Homes by CONEL and the care provider now says it wants to train more staff with the college.