Day in the life of a MSWA Community Support Worker

As someone deeply involved in recruitment, I’ve always been fascinated by the dynamic roles our MSWA Community Support Workers play in our beautiful Clients lives. 

Recently, I had the unique opportunity to step away from my desk and accompany Linzi Burke and Fermana Ekic, MSWA Support Workers on their daily rounds. This experience was not just enlightening—it was moving and has left me with a renewed sense of respect and appreciation for the work they do.

One of the highlights of my day was connecting with Clients, their families, and their furry friends. There’s something incredibly heartwarming about seeing the bonds that are formed between support workers and the people they assist. Whether it’s a warm hug from a grateful family member or the wagging tail of a loyal pet, it’s clear that these relationships are built on trust, compassion, and mutual respect.

Over three days, I observed a diverse range of tasks that support workers undertake. From assisting with personal care, managing medications, domestic duties around the home or even a social visit, their work demands both technical skill and emotional intelligence. What truly stood out to me was the sheer dedication these workers exhibit. They’re not just providing a service; they’re offering comfort, encouragement, and a listening ear to those in need.

One aspect of their work that particularly impressed me was the use of technology, specifically hoists. I had heard about these tools before, but witnessing how they work in real life was both eye-opening and impressive! Hoists are a testament to how technology can significantly enhance the quality of care by making physically demanding tasks easier and safer. It’s innovations like these that underscore the importance of continually investing in resources that support both our Clients and their caregivers. You may see me hanging out with our occupational therapists next!

My time out in the field was a powerful reminder of why our support workers are so vital. Their role goes far beyond the technical aspects of their job—they bring strength and hope to so many individuals and families. Their compassion, skill, and dedication often go unrecognised, but they are truly the unsung heroes of our community and organisation.

In light of this experience, I want to take a moment to extend my deepest appreciation to all our support workers. You are the heart of our community, and your efforts make a world of difference in the lives of people living with neurological conditions.

To everyone reading this, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the invaluable contributions of our support workers. Their work truly deserves our respect and admiration. 

Let’s continue to support and celebrate them, not just on special occasions, but every day!

Thank you to all the support workers who welcomed me into their world and showed me the incredible impact of their work. Your dedication is truly inspiring, and it’s an honour to be part of MSWA and I am proud to be recruiting for such a wonderful organisation!