23rd March 2022
Sanctuary Supported Living
Support Assistants like Tracy, who works at Station Mews, do an excellent job of supporting residents to build their confidence, and encouraging them to fulfil their potential.
Our Support Assistants do an excellent job of supporting residents to build their confidence and encouraging them to fulfil their potential and live as independently as possible. Tracy’s support makes a big difference to the residents at Sanctuary Supported Living’s Station Mews in Telford, which provides care and support for adults aged 18 and over, with a range of learning disabilities.
Although Tracy has worked in the social care sector for 30 years, this is the first time she’s supported people with learning disabilities. She said: “Although I didn’t have any experience of working with this client group, I was confident in my transferable skills and more importantly, I had a desire to support people on their pathway to independence. I felt really comfortable when interviewed for the role and I was reassured that I would be provided a thorough induction programme, as well as on-going training to support my progression.”
Fast forward two years, and Tracy works 25 hours a week doing what she does best – going above and beyond to support residents in reaching their goals, living their best life and celebrating their achievements.
She said: “Support work – these are two small words which together, encompass so much. When I see a resident accomplish a much–strived for goal - whether it be making a cup of tea on their own, or putting on their shoes, or being brave enough to get on the bus for the first time – seeing their satisfaction and their pride is just amazing.
"Sanctuary Supported Living fosters a culture where we have a great, can-do attitude, and I’m grateful to be part of an organisation that act with its values in mind."
“When people with learning disabilities are told by society ‘you can’t do that,’ it’s my job to help tackle these stereotypes and say ‘actually, yes you can!’ Some people have moved in here, and they’ve never had any encouragement to be independent but people with learning disabilities are just that… they’re people first.
“I’m exceptionally proud to be making a difference in residents’ lives. And we’re always having a laugh. We really enjoy ourselves at Station Mews. Residents like Jeremy love to travel so we’ve been down to Llandudno in Wales, and up to Chester to visit the zoo.
“Of course, there are challenges, especially when someone is having a bad day. But this job has taught me to think outside the box and be pragmatic, and more often than not, we’ll get through it. Sanctuary Supported Living fosters a culture where we have a great, can-do attitude, and I’m grateful to be part of an organisation that act with its values in mind.”
For more information about a career with Sanctuary Supported Living and the variety of roles we offer, see our careers page. For more information about services for people with disabilities, see our latest news or find a service near you.
