Why did you choose to work in social care?
I did not choose social care work, it chose me. Close family members have long careers in care, so I was exposed to care for people and enjoy the rewarding stories and smiles from that experience.
Being able to help someone no matter the task is a incredible feeling, perhaps that’s what lead me to care.
What is your role?
I am a support worker for OCC in the Witney Community Support Service, where we help adults who have learning/physical disabilities, ageing health, dementia or mental health needs.
We enjoy the company of others and have fun socialising all the while feeling at home and retaining some independence.
How did you progress to the role you are in now?
I worked in Supported Living for many years, then I moved to Respite Service. Along the way I have done lots of training and completed a Diploma level 3 in Health and Social Care with Adults and Children with Learning Disabilities.
I am currently finishing a Diploma Level 4 in Leadership in Health and Social Care whilst keeping myself updated with training.
What does your role involve?
No day is the same, which is the great thing about this line of work. I love that I do something different every day. I work with people with learning disabilities and older people.
Every day is different. Some days I will be supporting an individual in the community, it could be supporting with personal care, or running a session with our ‘Magic Table’!
Sometimes I support with swimming, cooking, music, sensory activities, communication skills, art, gardening and even reminiscing and talking about fond memories.
“I love the challenges that care work provides, it makes me think outside the box! And of course the positive outcomes deriving from my work and support to others.”
