2024-07-29 15:39:54
I’m a support worker, of course I went to a fairy kingdom party today
Attending fairy kingdom parties, laying out the red carpet for colleagues and people you support who’ve just attended the Royal Garden Party – or even a simple trip to the seaside. These are all real-life examples of life as a support worker for learning disability charity, Hft.
As latest figures show that the vacancy rate in social care remains at around three times the national average of other economic sectors, Hft has launched a new recruitment campaign for 2024, showcasing what working in care really means in a bid to attract more valuable colleagues.
The social media and print campaign showcase how social care is not just a job, but rather a fulfilling career. Social care is also the right fit for those looking for a role that can fit around their family commitments, or those simply looking for a change in direction.
“As Skills For Care’s new workforce strategy shows that more than half a million extra roles in social care will be needed in the next 15 years to keep up with demand, we felt this was a perfect time to launch a campaign to boost recruitment of key frontline colleagues,” explains Tracy Hampson, Director of Operations.
Hft has developed different creative approaches to speak to a mix of audiences, using its understanding of the roles, learning disabled adults, and the needs and wants people have for their career.
“The primary objectives are to show the world what care really looks like. There are so many misconceptions out there around what life as a support worker is like. We wanted to combat those and share the fantastic opportunities that come with the role of Learning Disability Support Worker. Days are varied, interesting and fun. There are challenges along the way but ask any support worker and you’ll hear how rewarding it really is,” Tracy explains.
Hft has used viral video trends to attract the attention of audiences. As well as sharing the variety and joy that comes with the role, Hft wanted to shine a light on the qualifications colleagues gain, all while working and being paid. Being a Learning Disability Support Worker is a career which is rewarding, exciting and challenging while also being part of positive change.
A big part of the Hft recruitment campaign was featuring the voice of colleagues who wanted to share their experience of care. One such person was Sonny, a Support Worker who completely changed his career after his wife became ill.
“Applying to Hft was the best decision I’ve ever made and I wish I’d done it years ago,” he says.
Sonny’s video is a heart-warming example of what real life as a support worker looks like.
Hft is still taking applications for support workers. To find out more, visit Hft.org.uk.
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
–
For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
