Support work is one of the most rewarding professions around and no two days are ever the same. We asked our support workers why they love what they do, and how working for Hft works for them.
Nicola
Age: 35
Job Title: Relief Support Worker
Years in Service: Just over a year
Town/City: Leeds
Nicola has worked for Hft for nearly a year and was inspired to become a support worker after her son was born with Down’s Syndrome. For her, being a relief support worker provides the flexibility to pick shifts that work for her from week to week, helping Nicola to achieve a healthy work life balance that suits her family.
“I’ve got young children and school commitments. With relief work you can pick up the hours you want on the days you want, so it’s really flexible. You can plan ahead and work around appointments and any other commitments. So it works really well.”
“Being a support worker is a job that doesn’t really feel like a job. It’s really rewarding – sometimes I can’t believe I’m getting paid to do this!”
Suman
Age: 40
Job Title: Relief Support Worker
Years in Service: 11
Town/City: Leeds
When Suman started working at Hft eleven years ago, she didn’t have any experience in social care and was looking for a support work role that worked around her family. With the support of Hft she has gained two NVQ qualifications in Health and Social Care, gaining the skills needed to build her professional development, while gaining practical on-the-job experience and earning a wage.
“I chose support work because I was a mum and it fits with my own life. I’m part time but also pick up relief shifts, which really suit me and my family.
“I’ve learnt so many skills, which are still developing every single day. I can’t imagine working anywhere other than Hft. Some days you have challenges, but you get so much satisfaction when you finish your shift and you’ve done something and see them happy. I never ever think of doing something else – I love my job.”
Rani
Age: 31
Job Title: Support Worker
Years in Service: Just over six years
Location: Worcestershire
Support work runs in the family for Rani, whose mum was a support worker for around 20 years, and seeing first-hand how rewarding her mum found the role inspired Rani to follow in her footsteps. For Rani, helping people achieve their goals and learning new skills every day ensures she goes home with a smile on her face.
“Support work is the best thing in the world and I literally couldn’t dream of doing something else. This has been my life since I was 17 and has been something I’ve wanted to do since I was young because my mum was a care worker.”
“Every day you go home with a sense of achievement and a sense that you’ve done something important because you know that, without you, that person might not have been able to do the things they’ve done that day – and that’s amazing.
“The moment I walked through the doors I thought, this is the place I’m going to be in for the rest of my life, and that’s what I intend to do – everyday there’s more for me to learn.”
Do you fancy taking on a new challenge in a role that works for you? Visit our jobs page to find your place at Hft.
