Sophy Zakharchenko

Compassionate and professional individual with experience across funeral arranging, support work and the prison service. These roles have strengthened my genuine passion for supporting people and families through difficult times. I take pride in providing a caring and respectful service while ensuring every aspect of a loved one's funeral is handled with dignity, compassion and attention to detail.

My experience as a Prison Custody Officer has further developed my communication, resilience and ability to remain calm and professional in challenging and sensitive situations. I am now keen to make a positive career change while continuing to provide individuals and families with the care, reassurance and support they deserve.

Prison Custody Officer - HMP Five Wells

(2024-12)

In my role as a Prison Custody Officer at HMP Five Wells I help maintain a safe, secure and well-run environment on a day-to-day basis. This involves supervising prisoners, carrying out checks and searches, managing unlocks and responding appropriately to incidents and concerns. I regularly support prisoners with issues they raise, using calm, clear and respectful communication to understand their needs and provide appropriate support.

My role requires me to remain professional and composed when dealing with challenging or sensitive situations, while maintaining confidentiality, dignity and respect at all times. I work closely with colleagues and other departments to ensure information is communicated effectively and procedures are followed accurately, contributing to a safe and supportive environment for everyone.

Support Worker - Avens LTD and Royal Mencap Society

(2022-02 - 2024-12)

In my role as a Support Worker at both Avens LTD, and then The Royal Mencap Society, I supported people with learning disabilities to live more independent and fulfilling lives. My day-to-day work involved providing personalised support, encouraging independence and helping individuals feel included and confident within their communities. I supported with daily living tasks, accompanied individuals on community activities and provided emotional support whenever it was needed.

I also worked closely with families and those important to the individuals I supported, maintaining positive and respectful relationships and keeping them informed about their loved one's wellbeing and progress. I communicated regularly with colleagues, families and other professionals involved in each individual's care to ensure their needs were understood and appropriately supported. I was trusted to work independently while recognising when concerns needed to be communicated or additional support was required.

I always approached my work with empathy, patience and genuine respect, ensuring that dignity, choice and autonomy remained at the heart of the support I provided.

Administrator - NHS

(2019 - 2019)

In my role as an Administrator, I provided general administrative support to the team and assisted with the smooth running of day-to-day office operations. My responsibilities included carrying out research, maintaining accurate records, filing and organising documents, answering telephone enquiries, responding to emails and assisting with general correspondence. I also supported with data entry, updating information and completing administrative tasks as required.

The role strengthened my organisation, attention to detail, communication and ability to manage confidential information professionally.

Funeral Arranger - Country Funerals

(2018-09 - 2019)

During my work experience with a local funeral director, I gained practical experience of the day-to-day running of a funeral home and supporting families with funeral arrangements. Following my initial work experience placement, I continued to assist the business and was trusted with increasing levels of responsibility, including looking after the funeral home independently on several occasions when the owners were unavailable. I assisted with liaising with families, answering telephone enquiries, taking messages, arranging appointments and supporting the organisation of funeral arrangements.

I developed a strong understanding of the importance of providing families with a compassionate, professional and respectful service while ensuring that their loved ones were treated with dignity and care. The experience confirmed my genuine interest in funeral arranging and my desire to work within the profession.

Sponne School (2012-09 - 2018-06)