Sue – Support worker

I’m a support worker at Options. I have a wide range of hobbies and interests, including photography, karaoke, writing poetry, litter picking, and generally keeping busy. I’m also a huge fan of Kevin Keegan and Liverpool, and I even have a mural of Jürgen Klopp on the side of my house!

In my role, I support two girls who I absolutely adore. I help them to be the best they can be and to enjoy their lives to the fullest. As a support worker, I wear many hats – I’m a mother, friend, counsellor, teacher, comedian, and advisor. Every day is different, bringing new challenges and rewards.

Before joining Options, I spent over 30 years in retail, with the last six years as a senior manager. When the chain I worked for started shutting down shops, I knew it was time for a career change. My cousin, who worked for Options, always spoke highly of her job and encouraged me to give it a try. Although I had no formal experience in the caring profession, I had cared for my mum since I was a little girl and regularly spent time with my cousins who had Down syndrome. With this life experience and the training I received at Options, I quickly gained confidence in my new role.

I love working for Options because the organisation truly strives to do the best for the people we support. I’ve always had the support I needed when I needed it. There have been so many memorable days in my career at Options – helping a person we support ride a bus for the first time, supporting people on holidays, assisting in a wedding proposal, and organising a carol service. Recently, I was involved in a Christmas pantomime, and seeing the joy and excitement on the faces of the people we support was priceless. The hard work put in by everyone made the event truly amazing.

“I support people through daily support, organising memorable events, and by simply being there for them in various roles. The joy and satisfaction I see in the people I support make every day rewarding and inspiring.”