TWO social care managers from Essex have taken part in a campaign by leading health and social care Cygnet to encourage social care workers to share their ‘superpowers’ and highlight the unique skills these workers possess in order to change lives for the better.
The social care superpower campaign is being run by the Cygnet Social Care division and aims to highlight the ordinary people with extraordinary skills who bring unique qualities to their social care services and make a valuable, positive difference to the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in society.
Recognising the challenges faced by the social care industry in terms of recruitment, it is hoped the campaign may work to encourage more people to consider a career in social care to give residents and patients the care they deserve.
As part of the campaign, six members of Cygnet Social Care staff shared inspirational stories about their careers in social care, why they love the job they do and, what they consider their social care superpower to be.
Ollie White has worked in social care for more than 10 years, starting his career as a support worker and successfully climbing the career ladder to become the Registered Manager of The Orchards, a Cygnet Social Care service in Thorrington, Essex which supports men with a learning disability or complex needs.
He said the most rewarding part of his job was helping people succeed. Describing the qualities needed for a successful career in social care, he said people needed to be “bubbly, fun and able to have a laugh.”
He added: “My social care superpower is being as least restrictive as possible.
“I give residents choices to make decisions for their wellbeing and their health, and don’t put so many boundaries in the way. It is about making sure we’re taking positive risks for our residents.
“I would encourage anyone to consider a career in social care. You get to help people, support them and be part of a team which changes lives.”
Sophie Clements is the registered manager of The Gables, a residential home on Ipswich Road, Colchester, which supports up to seven adults with learning disabilities and complex needs.
Having climbed the career ladder from a support worker, to a team manager, deputy manager and now registered manager, she described her social care superpower as “leadership”. She explained:
“The purpose of my job is setting an example to everyone else. The team at Gables are focused on ensuring that residents are part of their local community and can access various opportunities to meet their needs. I make sure my staff understand that consistency and continuity of care is important for the individuals we care for.
“I’m always hands on and I like to support the staff team whenever they need it. I would never ask a member of my team to do something that I wouldn’t do myself.
“Seeing a difference on a daily basis, watching the residents progress and meet their goals is the best thing about a career in social care.”
