It is an interesting question. And one, which I suppose you are likely to be asked in an interview for disability support work – ‘Why do you want to work as a disability support worker?’

If you are anything like me, it is the sort of thing that you need to dip your toes into before you can know if you are suited to the role, or if you can find decent reasons why you want to work as a disability support worker.

The benefit of some experience

I have recently had the opportunity to try out this role because I signed up for one of the many platforms designed to connect clients with workers. At first, it felt like there were dozens of applications for each role, and that I would never stand a chance of getting any work, but thankfully I persisted, and I was given one contract and a trial in another. I have only been on the platform just over a week, so this feels like a positive first step.

It has allowed me to really experience first-hand what it is like to work as a disability support worker. And this has led me to think more about why do you want to work as a disability support worker. The first, and most obvious reason is that the role is out in the community, being social with people. That was the first thing that drew me to the profession, as well as the fact that it means getting out and about and out of this isolated home office, where I have been designing and building websites, mainly on my own.

Do you value kindness and empathy?

However, as I got into the role more, it made me realise that being a support worker can actually help build skills in kindness and empathy. This is always a welcome thing, for someone who loves people and loves to be around people. It seems to me that if kindness and empathy is a value of mine, and it does seem to be, then working as a disability support worker helps me to move closer towards that value every day.

The other thing that is amazing about this role is the diversity of human beings. Our human brains and bodies are so diverse, and being a support worker helps to engage with a broad range of people, who have a diverse range of personalities, abilities and challenges.

Do you enjoy being helpful?

I actually really enjoy being helpful to others, and this job allows me to do that. Is there anything better than coming away from a session feeling like you really helped someone get more choice or control in their lives, or to do something that is meaningful to them?

After a session ends, I often spend time going over how I could have communicated better, or how I could better support my client. This feels like a pro-social topic to be thinking about, especially if it leads to better communication skills and interpersonal skills.

Pro-social and energising

It just feels like a healthy way to spend time – helping others in need, and it leaves me feeling upbeat, connected and positive.

There was a really interesting article in The Guardian about the benefits of working as a carer. This career leaves a fantastic taste in my mouth so far.

What are your reasons for why do you want to be a disability support worker? I would love to hear them in the comments!

Image credit:

“Disabled men play volleyball” by World Bank Photo Collection is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.