Sometimes you just know when you come across the ‘right’ job. This was exactly what happened to Craig when he visited our supported living home in Cheshire (583). There to deliver a bed, he instantly made an impression with his compassion and empathy. He asked about job vacancies on the spot.
Since that ‘aha’ moment, Craig has gone from strength to strength in his Support Worker role at the home. His ability to develop excellent relationships with people supported, their families and his team members is exemplary. Furthermore, he is always keen and willing to learn, taking on more senior responsibilities despite being new to the job.
Happy and helpful
He hasn’t let dyslexia impede his progress, dedicating time to learning and updating the mandatory systems and processes. He even supports others in areas that he feels less than comfortable with – always going that desirable ‘extra mile’.
Embracing the qualities ideal in a Support Worker, Craig has been instrumental in in promoting outcomes and compassionate support to those around him. His happy demeanour and helpful attitude are a great morale booster for team members and people supported alike.
Significant breakthrough
Craig supported a young man transitioning to the home, becoming his key worker and working very hard to build an amazing life for him. When the young man passed away, Craig supported everyone in his circle. He has also worked closely to develop more structure and routine for an autistic young man, succeeding in supporting him to get out and about regularly. The breakthrough is significant as the young man had struggled to do this since lockdown.
With a creative mindset, Craig will often suggest new things and person-centred ideas for having fun. For one person who enjoys sensory walks, this was obtaining a National Trust membership so that he can enjoy more regular activities and new, exciting destinations.
Accolades from many
Thanking Craig, a grateful parent wrote: “Craig has been a fantastic addition to the team. Since day one he has been really focused on delivering the Achieve together values and giving great support to our son. He goes above and beyond every minute to ensure that [he] is supported in the best way possible. He has been very proactive in finding solutions to the many difficulties that [our son] has. Craig is always positive, energetic and happy; he has made such a big difference to our son’s life.”
Practice Lead, Phil Smith, says: “From the minute Craig steps through the door to the minute he leaves he gives his absolute all to people we support, with a huge amount of empathy, compassion, energy.
“He always has a smile on his face with everything he does. I am often inspired by him and how much his intention behind everything he does is to benefit people we support.”
Newcomer of the year award
At our 2024 Heroes Awards, Craig won the Newcomer of the year award. This award acknowledges and celebrates the achievements of someone who has been at Achieve together less than a year and is new to the health and social care sector.
The judges were looking for examples of how nominees have already helped people we support to live ordinary lives, whilst demonstrating the Achieve together values of being brave, having fun, making things happen and valuing everyone.
