Sue gears up to celebrate 39 years with Hft

‘It’s such a rewarding role to be part of these peoples’ lives, enabling them to live the way that they choose’

A support worker who started her career with Hft as part of a youth training scheme will celebrate 39 years of working for the charity this Spring.

Sue Walker, who is based at the charity’s services in Sheffield, started her career with Hft at the tender age of 17 on a youth training scheme.

Mum of two Sue started her training in day services, helping to support individuals enjoy craft activities, before moving on doing shifts at Fairthorne – Hft’s first residential service.

From there, over the years, Sue has worked across the majority of residential and supported living services operated by Hft across Sheffield. and she says there’s never a dull day.

“I really enjoy my job,” she said.

“One of the best things of having worked for the charity for so long as I have grown with the people we support.

“I have seen them blossom and thrive and enjoy new experiences and move on with their lives.

“I like to think I know some, many of whom I have supported for more than 30 years, inside out.

“In turn, they have been with me on my life journey, including having my two children.

“The things we have all experienced, we have experienced them together.

“And that creates a special relationship and bond.”

One of Sue’s highlights was her time working on the Special Olympics as a cycling coach.

Sue supported individuals to not only attend and watch the Olympics, but compete in them too.

“It was wonderful to see the people we support compete in categories including bowling, cycling and horseriding,” she said.

“It was so rewarding for us all to be part of them collecting their gold medals.”

Alongside her daily role, Sue has also accompanied some of the people she supports on holiday.

“It’s such a rewarding role to be part of these peoples’ lives, enabling them to live the way that they choose,” said Sue. “And every day is different.

“There’s never a chance of me getting bored.

“The fact I have been with the charity so long has meant that I have developed as Hft has developed and that has given me lots of different opportunities to work in different services with different people.”

Outside of work, Sue enjoys her holidays – abroad and at home.

This year she has trips planned already to Whitby, Scarborough, Croatia and Zanzibar.

She has also re-started going to the gym.

“I have no plans to retire,” said Sue. “I am looking forward to marking 39 years with Hft in April and see where my role takes me next.”

As a Learning Disability Support Worker you’re in a position to make a genuine, positive difference.

Whether you work with someone who needs round-the-clock support, or someone who’s living independently, your input will help them to live their life, their way.

If you are interested in finding out more about a career with Hft, visit www.hft.org.uk/jobs.