"Being able to help residents in this way means everything to me."

We assess needs and identify care and other forms of support which may help residents who have a Learning Disability, and their carers. We also assess and respond to safeguarding concerns as they arise. 

COVID has made my job challenging - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Face-to-face opportunities to build relationships with clients are reduced, as we need to ensure this is risk-assessed because the safety of clients is paramount. 

Being in a supportive strong team has meant my team members are more like good friends - we tell jokes and share stories and anecdotes and really try to keep our strength in these times. 

The reason I do this job is for my clients, so I hope that I have been able to help them. The mother of a woman I am supporting sadly passed away, and she is now living on her own for the first time. I found some online activities provided by Mencap and she has really engaged with this, attending all the groups. This gave me comfort that she is enjoying this so much and will be able to form friendships and a support network.

Being able to help residents in this way means everything to me. I am very proud to be a social worker. 

I am newly qualified so my learning is evolving all the time. I hope that my support will help to improve the lives of our residents, even if that is just a small thing that makes their day or their life better or more meaningful for them. I hope we come through this and that I am able to meet my team in the office so that we can share cake and reflect on everything we achieved in these difficult times."

More than 70% of our budget goes towards caring for Sutton’s vulnerable adults and children. Following COVID, more people are needing our help, while the cost of services is increasing. 

Find out how we plan to protect those needing our care and support Sutton’s recovery over the next 12 months www.sutton.gov.uk/budget #SuttonBudget2021.

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