Shelby is a support worker with Manor Community, caring for people mental health illnesses and learning disabilities.

After a year in the sixth form Shelby decided her career aspirations would be better met through an apprenticeship, gaining experience and qualifications at the same time. That was almost two years ago and now she’s a full time support worker.

Her role is based in a care home setting supporting people with a range of diagnoses – bi-polar, schizophrenia, manic depression, psychosis, cerebral palsy and downs syndrome. Enabling clients to be as independent as possible is a core part of the job.

Shelby said: ‘I help people do daily tasks and with getting out and about, for example theatre or shopping. Some people need extra help with communication and we use pictorial supports to enable them to have a choice and make decisions.

‘I also work with colleagues to do things like checking medication, going to appointments, keeping in touch with loved ones and enabling people to express their feelings with art activities and games.

‘The best thing about my job is seeing the impact our care has on people’s lives. I love working in a family environment with amazing people.’

Shelby was recently nominated by clients, their family members and her colleagues for a company award for her outstanding work. She was chosen, along with three others, to have meal at Events in the Sky, 100 feet in the air!

Long term Shelby has plans to progress into a more senior role and then a management position.