Speakers
Stella Shaw
Henry Popiolek
Muhammad Ahmed
Panel
This talk will explore how digital tools can ease the transition for international care workers adapting to life and work in the UK. Highlighting technologies members use to assist with onboarding, language support, training, cultural orientation, and access to essential services. The session will also look at platforms that connect care workers with communities, mentors, and resources, helping them feel supported and integrated both professionally and personally.
Stella Shaw is a registered nurse and founder of StellarCare NW, an award-winning, nurse-led home care provider delivering complex and compassionate care across Cheshire & Wirral. With over two decades of experience in cardiology, academia, and project management, Stella blends clinical expertise with innovative models of service delivery. Passionate about reimagining home care, she leads on integrating technology to reduce hospital admissions and support people to live well at home.
Henry Popiolek is the cofounder of Lingly.ai, an innovative language learning platform designed specifically for the care sector. A linguist who speaks multiple European languages, Henry has channelled his experience into helping international care workers overcome the communication barriers they face on the job.
Lingly’s research shows that 9 out of 10 complaints in home care stem from language issues, highlighting how little structured support international staff receive- despite working in a profession where clear communication is essential. From navigating local accents to mastering technical vocabulary, care staff face challenges that go far beyond traditional language learning.
Lingly is tackling this head-on. Their platform has already supported hundreds of displaced workers and care professionals, and their mission is clear: to solve the language barrier in adult social care.
Karolina Gerlich, CEO of The Care Workers’ Charity, is a relentless advocate for the rights and well-being of care workers. With over 12 years of firsthand experience as a care worker and more than 8 years dedicated to advocacy, Karolina works tirelessly to ensure care workers are recognised as skilled professionals and receive the support they deserve. Her unwavering commitment to the sector was recently acknowledged with a Special Recognition Award at the WAGS 2024, highlighting her significant contributions to improving the lives of care workers. Karolina serves on multiple advisory boards and holds a position on the Leadership Board for the Impact Centre, continuing to drive positive change within the care sector and leaving a lasting impact on countless individuals.